In 1998, the wood products sector generated 252 trillion Btu, or 50% of the industry's energy needs, from wood residues. Remaining energy needs were met by electricity, natrual gas, and fuel oil. Of the 1,294 trillion Btu self-generated by the pulp and paper industry, approximately 70% was provided by black liquor from pulping operations, with 25% provided by wood residues. The pulp and paper industry is a large electricity consumer; since many newer processes are electricity-intensive, the sector will likely increase its use of electricity as production increases. The industry also uses large amounts of fuel oil relative to other industries. [MECS 1998]

Energy Consumption by Fuel – 1998 (NAICS 321 Wood Products)



Total Energy Consumed
654 trillion Btu (with electrical losses*)

Source: MECS 1998

* Losses incurred during the generation and transmission of electricity

Energy Consumptiond by Fuel – 1998 (NAICS 322 Pulp & Paper)



Total Energy Consumed
3245 trillion Btu (with electrical losses*)

Source: MECS 1998

* Losses incurred during the generation and transmission of electricity