Reality Check? Global Fossil Fuel Consumption Grows

After a multi-year decline, global carbon emissions are on the upswing. The International Energy Agency now says that emissions grew in 2017 -- caused by an increase oil, natural gas and coal demand. Nearly three-quarters of new energy demand across the globe was served by fossil fuels. At the same time, America saw another yearly drop in carbon emissions, which IEA says was assisted by renewables. But with more and more carbon-free nuclear plants slated for closure across the U.S., many worry the trend will end. In this week's Energy Gang, we'll look at trends in global energy demand. We'll also look to the situation in the U.S., where concerns about losing nuclear are growing. Then, we'll talk about FirstEnergy Solutions' bankruptcy. Could the company find a way to save its nuclear plants by compromising with renewables advocates?  Finally, EPA chief Scott Pruitt is cutting back on Obama-era fuel efficiency standards. We’ll explore the consequences. Are CAFE standards even the right policy? The Energy Gang is brought to you by Sense. Sense installs in your home's electrical panel and provides insight into your energy use and home activity through our iOS, Android, and web apps. Find out more. Recommended reading:EIA: Global Energy and CO2 Status ReportThird Way: How Nuclear Retirements Might Undermine Clean Power Plan ProgressGTM: FirstEnergy Seeks Bankruptcy Protection for Ailing Coal and Nuclear SubsidiariesGTM: California Girds for Battle as EPA Rules to Weaken Vehicle Emissions StandardsR Street Institute: Replacing Fuel-Economy Rules With Clean Tax CutsSubscribe to The Energy Gang podcast via Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or wherever you find your audio content.