Global demand for energy

Question 0

Rising consumption

Answer 0

The greater the demand, the higher the consumption. During the 20th century, demand increased 10x. Much of the demand is coal, oil and gas, but renewable energies are likely to have increased demand

Question 1

Sources of demand

Answer 1

Used for a variety of purposes. Transport takes nearly half of the world’s oil production, homes and commercial property use less than a third. Over two thirds of coal is used for electricity and thermal power stations. Much of natural gas is used for the same purposes.

Question 2

Why is there rising consumption?

Answer 2

A combination of population growth, economic development and rising standards of living.

Question 3

Future trends

Answer 3

China and India expected to have the largest rise. Countries in western Europe may actually decline due to improved energy efficiency. Energy consumption in the developed world is expected to double by 2020, while it will increase about a third in the developed.