Energy Issues

Energy Issues

1. Non Renewable Energy (stock resources) - there is a finite supply of sources and without using sustainbly they will run out in the foreseeable future

   • Nuclear energy
     • Generated by splitting atoms of uranium by Nuclear fission (a chain reaction).
     • Advantages
       • Small amount makes a lot of electricity
       • No CO2 emissions
       • Easily stored
     • Disadvantages
       • Concern of safety
       • Can't be switched on/off easily
       • Produces radio active waste
   • Coal
   • Oil
   • Natural Gas

2. Renewable Energy (flow resources) - can be consumed without endangering future consumption as it has a natural rate of availability

3. Energy Mix - the relative importance of each type of energy source in providing a country's energy

   • Factors influencing a country's energy mix
     • Security
     • Affordability
     • Availability
   • UK's primary energy mix
     • 38% natural gas
     • 9% nuclear
     • 2% renewables
     • 16% coal
     • 35% oil