A 2024 report from the Rural Climate Partnership (RCP) brings national attention to the role rural communities play in the broader U.S. energy and emissions picture. Despite making up just 18% of the population, rural America spans 86% of the nation’s land and is responsible for at least 36% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Until now, no public estimates existed for emissions generated specifically in rural areas.
The Rural Emissions Analysis was developed to better understand how emissions are distributed across the country. Its findings show that rural emissions are closely tied to essential national services such as energy generation, agriculture, and manufacturing that support both urban and suburban populations.
Electric power generation emerged as a key factor. While the sector accounts for around 25% of U.S. emissions, nearly half of those emissions originate in rural communities. Many rural power plants, especially coal-based facilities, produce energy that is used elsewhere, while the environmental impacts remain local. Coal, still a major source of U.S. electricity, is largely based in rural regions and contributes significantly to national energy needs.
The report also highlights rural America’s leadership in clean energy development. Approximately 83% of wind, solar, and geothermal capacity is located in rural areas, including 91% of wind power. These projects offer economic opportunity and position rural communities as drivers of energy innovation. By identifying emission sources and economic roles, the Rural Emissions Analysis offers data to help inform practical, locally led solutions that reflect the strengths and needs of rural communities.