ESS Standard Topic 7.2

Renewable

Natural resources that can be replenished within the same timescale as that which they are taken from the environment and used

Non-Renewable

A finite resource. Can’t be replenished within a human lifespan

Global trends in energy consumption [POPULATION GROWTH]

• As the global population increases, so does energy demand

• More people need energy for electricity, transport, heating and cooling

Energy consumption

The total amount of energy used by individuals, industries and countries

Global trends in energy consumption [PER CAPITA ENERGY DEMAND]

• People are using more energy per person

• Particularly in developing countries where industrialisation and living standards are improving

Global trends in energy in energy consumption [ENERGY PRODUCTION CHANGES]

• Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas continue to supply the majority of the world's energy

• Renewable energy (e.g. wind, solar and hydro) is growing but still provides a smaller portion of global energy

E.g. in 2022, 80% of the world's energy came from fossil fuels, with renewable energy making up 12.7

Economic development as a reason for changes in energy

An increase in wealth means more energy is used for:

• Industial Process

• Transportation

• Technology

E.g. Indias energy consumption is increasing as it develops it’s manufacturing sector/infrastructure

Environmental concerns about climate change driving a shift in energy use

• Global concern about climate change

• Government targets reduce carbon emissions and invest in renewable energy

E.g. The European Union aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, which requires a massive reduction in fossil fuel use

Why are Fossil fuels still incredibly significant?

Many industries are unable to be powered by renewable energy. Since it is high energy

E.g. The production of steel and concrete. Ammonia a key ingredient in synthetic fertilises support global agriculture and natural gas is essential for it’s production

Meeting the growing demand for energy

• Energy efficiency

E.g.the UK government has introduced stricter building regulations Requiring homes to be more energy efficient, helping to lower overall energy demand

• Behavioural changes

• Incresed investment in rnewable energy

• Storing Energy efficently

Energy. Choices

Refer to the decisions a country makes about how it generates and consumes energy.