Energy Sources

Renewable Energy Sources

• Definition: Sources that regenerate naturally and have minimal environmental impact.
• Examples: Solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass.

Non-renewable Energy Sources

• Definition: Finite sources that deplete over time and are associated with higher environmental costs.
• Examples: Coal, oil, natural gas, and uranium (nuclear).

Global Energy Consumption

• Trends:
  • Global energy demand is increasing due to population growth, industrialization, and urbanization.
  • Fossil fuels account for ~80% of global energy consumption.
  • Renewable energy is growing but still represents a smaller share.
• Regional Variations:
  • Developed Nations: Higher per capita energy consumption due to industrial activity and lifestyle.
  • Developing Nations: Rapidly increasing energy demand, driven by industrialization and economic growth.

Factors Affecting Energy Choices Made by a Country

• Resource Availability:
  • Countries rich in coal, oil, or gas (e.g., Saudi Arabia, and Russia) rely heavily on these resources.
• Economic Considerations:
  • The cost of production and infrastructure development influences energy choice.
  • Developing nations often choose cheaper fossil fuels over renewables.
• Technological Development:
  • Availability of technology for renewable energy generation (e.g., solar panels, wind turbines) or advanced fossil fuel extraction.
• Environmental Policies:
  • Stricter regulations encourage investment in cleaner energy.
• Geopolitical Concerns:
  • Energy imports expose countries to international market fluctuations and conflicts.
• Public Opinion and Political Will:
  • Social acceptance and government priorities shape energy policies.

Factors Influencing the Use of Fossil Fuels

• Advanced Extraction Technologies:
  • Techniques like fracking, horizontal drilling, and deep-sea extraction make previously inaccessible reserves usable.
• Economic Considerations:
  • Fossil fuels are often cheaper to extract and transport than renewables, especially in resource-rich nations.
• Energy Density:
  • Fossil fuels provide high energy output compared to some renewable sources, making them attractive for heavy industries and transportation.
• Infrastructure:
  • Existing global infrastructure (e.g., refineries, pipelines) favours continued fossil fuel use.