Energy case study Flashcards
Facts and figures about Iceland and its use of energy.
- Iceland is known for its abundant renewable energy resources, primarily geothermal and hydropower.
- Approximately 85% of Iceland’s primary energy comes from domestically produced renewable energy sources, with geothermal energy playing a significant role.
- The remaining portion of Iceland’s energy mix comes from hydropower, which uses the country’s many rivers and waterfalls for electricity generation.
- Iceland produces far more electricity than it consumes (it produces approximately 55,000 kWh per person per year, compared to an average of 6000 in Europe), giving it a surplus of energy exported to other countries.
- Because of its reliance on renewable energy, Iceland has one of the lowest carbon footprints per capita in the world, making it a global leader in sustainable energy.
What is its energy mix? Give figures.
- Geothermal Energy - Installed Capacity: ~ 665 MW.
Percentage of Energy Mix: ~ 25% for electricity generation; nearly 90% for heating. - Hydropower - Installed Capacity: ~ 1,900 MW.
Percentage of Energy Mix: ~ 73% for electricity generation. - Fossil Fuels - Minor role in the energy mix, with limited use.
What is geothermal energy and why is it big in Iceland? How does Iceland use its geothermal energy?
Iceland is located on the Mid Atlantic ridge, a constructive plate boundary, above a tectonic hotspot and on a very thin section of crust that makes Iceland one of the most geothermally active areas in the world. Iceland uses this constant source of heat from deep within the ground to provide high amounts of energy. The energy is mainly used as a replacement for fossil fuels in domestic electricity and heating.
What are the advantages of geothermal for Iceland? Any disadvantages?
The main advantage of geothermal energy is that it is a renewable energy source and for the most part completely carbon neutral, meaning that it is very environmentally friendly. It is also a sustainable source in the way that it will never run out as long as the earth’s core stays stable. In addition, it is very cost effective - efficient extraction of heat makes the cost of production very low relative to other renewable energy sources.
What other types of energy does Iceland use, and why?
- Wind Energy: Iceland has some potential for wind energy generation, particularly in coastal areas. While wind power contributes to the energy mix, it is limited compared to geothermal and hydroelectric power as a result of Iceland’s unique geography and unreliable wind patterns.
- Solar Energy: Solar power generation in Iceland is limited due to its high latitude allowing for relatively low levels of sunlight, especially during the winter months when energy demand is higher. However, solar energy may still be used for some smaller applications like individual (off the grid) houses.
- Imported Fossil Fuels: Some imported fossil fuels are still used, particularly in transportation and some industrial processes where alternative renewable options may not be economically feasible.
The reason Iceland uses a mix of energy sources is to ensure energy security, reliability, and sustainability. If they solely depended on one type of energy, they would be at risk of a major disaster if that failed in some way.
Facts and figures about India and its use of energy.
- India is home to 18 percent of the world’s population, but uses only 6 percent of the worlds primary energy.
- India’s annual energy consumption has doubled since 2000.
- Three-quarters of Indian energy demand is met by fossil fuels.
- This figure has been increasing as households move from the use of solid biomass for cooking.
What is India’s current energy mix? Give figures.
India’s total energy consumption has increased rapidly over 2010-2022 (3.5%/year). Coal is the country’s top energy source with a share of 46% in 2022, followed by oil (24%) and biomass (21%). Natural gas covers 5% and primary electricity (hydro, nuclear, solar, and wind) 4%.
What are India’s energy ambitions and priorities?
India’s energy ambitions are:
- To maintain an expanding country
- To bring electricity to the large number of people, particularly in rural areas, who remain without it
- To improve transport
- To provide infrastructure (water, waste disposal) needed by an expanding population
What problems does rising energy demand in India cause?
- Economic Impact: High energy prices can lead to inflation, increased production costs, and decreased economic productivity. Social Impact: Energy shortages can cause disruptions in daily life, including power cuts, reduced heating or cooling, and limited transportation.
- Political impact: Rising energy import dependency puts India’s energy security at risk, drains the national treasury and causes geo-political risks
- Environmental Impact: The rapid growth in fossil energy consumption has also meant India’s annual CO2 emissions have risen to become the third highest in the world.
What opportunities are there for India to expand its use of renewable energy? Give facts and figures.
India aims to produce five million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030. This will be supported by 125 GW of renewable energy capacity. 50 solar parks with an aggregate capacity of 37.49 GW have been approved in India. Wind Energy has an off-shore target of 30 GW by 2030, with potential sites identified.
