Energy Choices and Security Summary

  • Energy Sources: Vary in sustainability, availability, cost, and socio-political implications.

  • Energy Security: Crucial in making energy choices; involves reliability, safety of supply, and access for populations.

  • Global Energy Demand Growth:

    • Predicted to increase by 80% by 2050 due to:
    • Development in less economically developed countries (LEDCs)
    • Population growth
    • New technologies
    • MEDCs show decoupling of economic growth from energy consumption; however, China and India require substantial energy increases.
    • Shift towards electricity use, promoting renewable energy reliance and increasing efficiency in industries.

  • Current Energy Landscape (2016):

    • Energy demand transition post-Paris Agreement; falling oil prices make new oil developments unprofitable.
    • Low oil prices influence shift towards Middle East oil, raising geopolitical concerns.
    • Increase in electricity generation from renewables (90% in 2015) as coal use declines; notable closure of coal power stations in Scotland.

  • Renewable Energy Competitiveness:

    • Renewables now often outcompete fossil fuels in price; over 50% of renewable investments in 2015 from LEDCs.
    • Wind and solar energy sectors increasingly competitive with fossil fuels.

  • Factors Influencing Energy Security:

    • Reliability: Self-produced energy sources.
    • Safety: Protection of energy supplies from threats.
    • Access: Affordability of energy supply to populations, exemplified by India's solar development plans.

  • Emissions and Efficiency:

    • Fossil fuels dominate energy supply but vary significantly in emissions.
    • Expectations of growing use of low-carbon sources (solar, wind, etc.) and nuclear energy.
    • Improvements in energy efficiency and conservation are key to managing demand and enhancing energy security.