1 - Energy use

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on energy demand and supply and also describes the sources and sustainability of energy. All energy is derived ultimately from the elemental matter, which comprises both the Sun and Earth. The Sun warms the planet and provides the light required for plants to grow. Its energy was incorporated into the particular plant and animal life from which were derived today's coal, oil, and natural gas deposits—all important fossil fuels. Several secondary energy sources or carriers include electricity, hydrogen, alcohols, oil, and gas. Electricity is of major importance as a secondary source. In developing countries, growth in energy demand from a low starting point continually increases the pressures on the resources worldwide, despite conservation initiatives. Electricity generation uses some 40% of the world's total primary energy supply. Where the world's total energy demand is expected to increase 60% from 2002 to 2030, the electricity demand is expected to double between 2002 and 2030, with most of the growth in developing countries.