The production and use of energy is the single most significant driver of greenhouse gas in a community. About 40 percent of fossil fuel combustion emissions, the primary greenhouse gas source, are from the residential and commercial end-use sectors, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2007 greenhouse gas inventory.

Energy supply, distribution and use therefore have profound effects on the greenhouse gas emissions for communities. Energy issues also affect many other aspects of livability, from aesthetics to local air quality to economic activity.