Energy

Since the 1970s, there's been a decrease in the domestic use of energy - name some reasons why.

The introduction of energy efficient devices (such as light bulbs)

Public awareness that they must save energy

The increased cost of energy.

Why has there been an increase in the use of energy since the 1970s?

The number of cars has increased from 10 million in 1970 to over 27 million today, along with an increase in air travel.

How are coal, oil, and gas used?

They can be burned directly to produce heat. However, this process releases CO2 and many harmful greenhouse gases into the environment.

What is nuclear energy used for?

Nuclear energy uses uranium to produce heat in a nuclear reactor. The heat is then used to drive a turbine to generate electricity.

It is not a fossil fuel, but it is non-renewable as the supplies of uranium are finite.

Why is energy essential for our wellbeing?

Energy is used for heating, transportation, processing food, and powering machinery.

What are renewable energy sources? (Examples of)

Renewable energy sources include solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass, which are sustainable and can be replenished naturally.

What are the advantages of renewable energy?

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.

What challenges are associated with renewable energy?

Intermittency (e.g., solar and wind depend on weather conditions).

Storage of energy.

The initial costs of installation.

What are the reduced domestic supplies of fossil fuels in the UK and their implications?

The UK has seen a decline in domestic production of coal, oil, and natural gas due to depletion of resources and stringent regulations, leading to increased reliance on imports, higher energy prices, and energy security concerns.

What economic issues are associated with the exploitation of energy sources?

Economic issues include fluctuating energy prices affecting consumers and businesses, the cost of investment in extraction and infrastructure, and potential job losses in traditional energy sectors.

What environmental issues are associated with the exploitation of energy sources?

Environmental issues include habitat destruction, air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change, and the potential for oil spills or accidents during extraction.

How does the decline of coal extraction impact the UK economy?

The decline of coal extraction has led to job losses in mining communities, loss of local investment, but has also pushed for a transition toward cleaner energy jobs in renewable sectors.

What are the implications of increased reliance on imported energy?

Increased reliance on imported energy raises concerns about energy security, vulnerability to international market fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions affecting supply.

What is fracking?

The process of drilling down into the earth before a high-pressure water mixture is directed at the rock to release the gas inside.

What are the advantages of fracking?

Allows drilling firms to reach hard to access resources of oil and gas.

Can boost domestic oil production and lower gas prices

(It's estimated to have offered gas security to the US and Canada for 100 years.)

What are the disadvantages of fracking?

Promotes environmental concerns.

Uses huge amounts of water that need to be transported (big cost).

Can cause small earth tremors.