Energy and natural resources

What was the purpose of the Chad-Cameroon oil pipeline?

To help Chad export oil through Cameroon and use the money to fight poverty, with international support and oversight.

What does Shaffer say about energy-related wars after WWII?

She says wars over energy have decreased because global markets meet energy demand, so countries don’t need to fight for it.

What percentage of Sweden’s energy comes from wood?

22% of Sweden’s energy comes from wood (biomass).

What is James Fearon’s argument about civil war and energy?

Countries that depend a lot on resources like oil are more likely to have civil wars, because the money can fund rebel groups.

How much global energy goes through the Strait of Hormuz?

About 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes through it.

Since 2015, which got more investment: renewables or fossil fuels?

Renewables like wind and solar got more investment.

What caused the rise in pipelines in the 21st century?

More demand for gas, high oil prices, landlocked countries producing oil, desire for energy security.

Which country produces the most energy from the Earth?

Kenya, with 44% of its electricity from geothermal energy.

What is the learning curve and levelized cost of energy (LCOE)?

Learning curve: the more you make something, the cheaper it gets. LCOE: the total cost of making energy, divided by how much it produces.

Why did Azerbaijan choose Georgia and Turkey over Russia or Iran?

Because Georgia and Turkey were more friendly and less powerful, so Azerbaijan felt safer sending oil through them.

Does energy supply reduce conflict between states (Shaffer)?

No. Shaffer says peace must exist first before pipelines can work.

What’s the link between democracy and rentier states?

Countries that make money from oil often aren’t very democratic, because they don’t rely on taxes from citizens.

Why was the IEA created in 1974?

To help Western countries deal with oil shortages and reduce dependence on OPEC.

What happened in the 2019 drone attack on Saudi Aramco?

Drones hit oil plants and cut Saudi Arabia’s oil output in half for a short time.

What are the main problems with nuclear energy?

It’s expensive, creates waste, and people worry it could lead to nuclear weapons.

What is Barry Buzan’s view on environment and security?

He says climate change is now a security threat, not just an environmental issue.

What’s the problem with tar sands, oil shale, and coal?

They pollute more than regular oil and make climate change worse.

What are the 3 parts and 5 solutions for energy security?

Three parts: reliable supply, affordable price, environmentally friendly. Five solutions: use different energy types, buy from different countries, store emergency fuel, build backup systems, use flexible fuel options.

What’s the difference between oil and gas as commodities?

Oil is traded worldwide. Gas isn’t fully global yet, but LNG ships are changing that.