In 2000, a total of 4 quadrillion Btu (1 quadrillion kcal) of energy was consumed in Florida, ranking it eighth among the 50 states in total energy consumption, and 47th in per capita energy consumption, which was 247 million Btu (62.2 million kcal). The major source of energy consumed is petroleum, which accounted for 47.8% in 1998. Although Florida produces some oil and natural gas, it is a net importer of energy resources. Its mild climate and abundant sunshine offer great potential for solar energy development, but this potential has not been extensively exploited.
In 1999, Florida had an installed electric energy generating capacity (utility and nonutility) of 40,940 MW; net generation was 196.9 billion kWh. In 1999, 20% of electricity produced came from residual fuel oil, 36% from coal, 17% from nuclear, and 23% from natural gas; hydroelectricity and distillate fuels totaled less than 4%. Nuclear generating capacity increased by 27% in August 1983, when the 830,000-kW St. Lucie 2 facility, operated by the Florida Power and Light Co., south of Ft. Pierce, began commercial operation. Also owned by Florida Power and Light are St. Lucie 1, with a capacity of 830,000 kW, and Turkey Point Units 3 and 4, each with a capacity of 693,000 kW, located in Dade County. Florida Power Corp. operates the state's other nuclear power plant, the 830,000-kW Crystal River 3 facility, on the northern Gulf coast.
In 2002, the state produced 10,000 barrels per day of crude oil; proved reserves as of 31 December 2001 were 75 million barrels. Natural gas marketed production in 2002 was 3,343 million cu ft (94.6 million cu m); proved reserves were 84 billion cu ft (2.4 billion cu m) in 2001.