Energy Flashcards
What was the rate of world economic growth in 2017?
In 2017, global GDP grew by 3.8%, due to rapid growth in emerging economies such as China + India
This economic growth meant that there was a rise in global energy demand of how much?
This economic growth went hand in hand with a rise in global energy demand of 2.1% -> more than twice the rate in 2016
Why does this mean that global emissions are now on the rise again, having plateaued for the previous three years?
As most of the increased energy demand was met with fossil fuels, global emissions are now on the rise again, having plateaued for the previous 3 years
At what rate did carbon intensity continue to fall at?
Why is this not good enough?
Carbon intensity continued to fall at a rate of 2.6%
But this falls short of 3% decarbonisation rate needed to meet the weak national targets pledged in Paris Agreement
Why is the 2 degree goal becoming more difficult to achieve?
Each year that the global economy fails to decarbonise at the required rate, the 2 degree goal becomes more difficult to achieve
Why did coal consumption grow by 1% in 2017?
Driven by countries like Turkey, Indonesia and India - where coal still remains the largest energy source
All 3 countries have seen high GDP growth + growth in their heavy industrial sectors
How fast did renewables grow in 2017?
Wind, solar + other renewables grew rapidly, increasing by 17%
What was the fastest growing energy source?
Solar energy was the fastest growing energy source
What was the growth in solar energy driven by?
- Falling prices
- Increased government
Particularly in China, which accounted for almost half the solar panels installed
Which country is sustaining the low carbon transition?
China has retained its leading position among the G20
With a decarbonisation rate of 5.2%
Why has economic growth in China been greener?
GDP growth driven by:
- growth in services
- technological upgrading
While investment in energy intensive industries fell, thereby making growth greener
Did any of the G20 countries achieve the 6.4% rate required to limit warming to 2 degrees in 2017?
Not one of the G20 countries achieved the 6.4% rate required to limit warming to 2 degrees
How can future sustainability of energy systems worldwide be achieved?
By means of a rapid departure from fossil fuels
In order to prevent the planet from reaching a climatic tipping point, what did a recent report by the IPCC decide to do?
Set the target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050
What will a transition to a global low carbon future require?
An unprecedented degree of international cooperation and reform at all levels of society
