topic 9 - consuming energy resources (access to energy) Flashcards
energy mix
The balance of the different types of energy which a country uses.
IEA
International Energy Agency - recognises 4as which impact access to energy
what are the 4as
availability (geological)
accessibility (geopolitical) - affected by conflict e.g Russia
affordability (economic)
acceptability (environmental + social) - willingness to change
how does geology impact access to energy
fossil fuels are found in sedimentary rocks, where impermeable rocks have trapped the oil and gas in the permeable rocks below. Countries located on plate boundaries may be able to access geothermal energy (using the earth’s heat to generate power)
how does climate impact access to energy
regions with high rainfall and relief are good locations for HEP
climatic conditions are important to harness potential for wind and solar power
exposed areas provide high winds, e.g London Array in the North Sea, UK’s largest wind farm
how does physical accessibility impact access to energy
an area might have large energy resources but be unable to access them
For example, permafrost (permanently frozen ground) makes it very difficult to access fossil fuels. Some resources are also found in protected areas like Antarctica
how does technology impact access to energy
many developing countries have abundant sources of energy, but are unable to exploit their energy resources as technology required is too expensive
developed nations usually have more renewable energy supplies, while developing nation relying on cheaper, more accessible fossil fuels
how does landscape impact access to energy
wind turbines are more efficient in areas with a steady and reliable source of wind, e.g on high ground or along the coast
give an example as to why technology impacts access to energy
Niger has large uranium reserves but insufficient technology to develop nuclear power plants
