Global energy consumption and supply
Energy consumption per person is very high in countries like the USA, Canada, Australia and much of Europe. It is low across most of Africa and South East Asia.
Different energy sources are present in different quantities across the globe. Those different energy source cost different amounts to produce. Therefore there are different rates of production across the world. The balance between energy supply and demand determines the level of energy security. If supply exceeds demand the the area is an energy surplus however if demand exceeds supply there there is an energy deficit and the country will suffer from energy insecurity. |
What factors affect energy supply?
Different factors affect energy supply:
Cost of exploitation and productionSome energy sources are more costly to extract from then others. Oil rigs and pipelines require large investments initially and also for maintenance. Local use of biomass is an appropriate technology for LICs for use in the home. Physical factorsThe geology of the area will determine the availability of fossil fuel. Geothermal energy is only accessible in areas of tectonic activity like Iceland. |
TechnologyEnergy sources in remote of difficult environments have been made accessible through technological advancements. A good example is fracking. ClimateThe amount of sunshine and wind determine if these renewable energy source are viable. Tidal power needs an appropriate location with a large tidal range. HEP needs an appropriate dam site with high rainfall in a mountainous areas. |
Political factors
These factors affect which energy sources are exploited and from which countries energy can be obtained.
Some examples of this is:
Some examples of this is:
- Political instability in the Middle East has meant that many oil-consuming countries are looking for alternative energy sources
- Some western countries want to stop Iran developing nuclear power as they feel they could use the technology for nuclear weapons.
Why is energy consumption increasing?
Economic development:
- As development increases, so does demand for energy
- As energy use increases, there should be greater economic development too
- E.g. India and China
- By 2050 the global population was predicted to rise to 9 billion
- All the extra people will need more energy
- Increasing use of technology as countries develop will increase energy demand