US nonrenewable energy resources as of December 31, 1979

The remaining recoverable fossil fuels are estimated and summarized in four tables, namely: (1) conventional natural gas resources; (2) conventional crude oil resources; (3) summary of all nonrenewable resources, based on publications of agencies reporting in (1) and (2); and (4) life of US fossil-fuel resources at various demand growth rates. No claim is made for the accuracy of disputed oil estimates. Both proved reserves and the estimated total resources which remain and are economically recoverable are reported. Future studies may include the potential resources of peat, Eastern oil shale, and others. Fossil fuels in the US could last from 31 to 107 years, depending on the annual growth rate of demand. (DCK)