21 February 2014
EU Energy Consumption Drops 8% Between 2006-2012
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The EU's Eurostat statistical service has reported that the EU's energy consumption in 2012 has dipped to nearly 1990 levels, with renewables and nuclear power making up half of EU energy production in 2012.

European Union 17 February 2014: The EU’s Eurostat statistical service has reported that the EU’s energy consumption in 2012 dipped to nearly 1990 levels, with renewables and nuclear power making up half of EU energy production in 2012.

The EU’s Eurostat statistical service indicates that consumption in 1990 was 1,670 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe), and increased to a historic high of 1,830 Mtoe in 2006. Consumption then decreased down to 1,680 Mtoe by 2012, equating to a drop from 2006 to 2012 of 8%. This drop is attributed both to the global economic downturn decreasing economic activity, as well as to increases in energy efficiency over recent years. [EU Press Release] [IISD RS Sources]