Energy and The Environment

What are renewable energy resources?

Resources that can be replenished naturally: Wind, Solar, Hydroelectric (HEP), Geothermal, Biomass

What are non-renewable energy resources?

Resources that cannot be replenished naturally: Oil, Gas, Coal, Peat

How is Ireland becoming more self-sufficient in energy production?

By increasing gas production

Which fossil fuels are less commonly used in Ireland?

Coal & Peat

What are the advantages of oil?

, ✔ Easily transported

What are the disadvantages of oil?

✖ Expensive and imported, ✖ Risk of oil spills causing pollution

How much of Ireland’s electricity comes from HEP?

2.5%

Why is Ireland ideal for wind energy production?

Strong Atlantic winds, cut-away bogs for wind farms, prevents visual pollution

What is Ireland’s largest wind farm?

Galway Wind Park (58 turbines)

How much of Ireland’s electricity is produced by wind energy?

20%, saving €200m annually

How many people are employed in Ireland’s wind energy sector?

Over 3,400 people

What causes global warming?

Burning fossil fuels → greenhouse gases trap heat → climate change

What are the effects of acid rain?

Damages crops, kills fish, harms forests & buildings

What causes smog?

Fossil fuel emissions reacting with sunlight

What are the effects of smog?

Irritates eyes and nose

What are examples of non-renewable energy?

Oil, Gas, Coal, Peat

What are examples of renewable energy?

HEP, Wind, Solar, Geothermal, Biomass