EQ2 comparison of energy mix of UK and Norway Flashcards
What did the UK depend heavily on until the 1970s?
Domestic coal
The UK had significant reliance on coal for energy before the discovery of North Sea oil and gas.
What energy sources dominated the UK energy mix after the 1970s?
North Sea oil and gas
-The discovery of these resources significantly changed the UK’s energy landscape.
Why are North Sea reserves considered a secure alternative?
They reduce dependency on Middle Eastern oil
This was a strategic shift in energy sourcing for the UK.
What is a major drawback of North Sea oil extraction?
It is expensive and stocks are reducing
-This leads to increased imports of oil and gas.
What commitment did the UK make in 2021 regarding greenhouse gas emissions?
A 78% decrease in domestic greenhouse gas emissions
-This reflects the UK’s focus on environmental priorities.
What does the UK want to broaden its energy mix with?
Renewable sources, especially wind and nuclear power
-This is part of a strategy to enhance sustainability.
How many years’ worth of coal reserves are left in the UK?
150 years
-Despite this, coal has lost political support.
What technology exists for coal in the UK?
Clean coal technology
-However, it lacks political backing.
What national issue arose from increased reliance on imported energy?
National energy security
-This concern led to new exploration licenses in 2022.
What public concerns have increased regarding energy in the UK?
Fracking and nuclear sites
-Public sentiment plays a significant role in energy policy.
What impact has privatization had on the UK’s energy supply?
Overseas companies decide which sources are used
This affects domestic energy strategies and priorities.
What was the average annual UK energy household cost in 2023?
£2070
What is the primary natural energy choice in Norway?
Hydroelectric power
-This is due to Norway’s mountainous terrain and ample rainfall.
What is the average annual household energy cost in Norway?
£4000
What political approach does the Norwegian government take regarding energy sites?
Interventionist approach
This approach prevents foreign companies from owning primary energy sites such as forests.
What percentage decrease in domestic greenhouse gas emissions has Norway committed to by 2030?
40%
This commitment reflects Norway’s environmental priorities.
What was Norway’s CO2 emissions per capita in 2022?
8 tonnes
This is a decrease from 12 tonnes per capita in 2015.
What is a significant challenge related to hydroelectric power in Norway?
Expensive transfer of electricity
This challenge arises from the need to transport electricity from remote HEP production sites to urban populations.
What technological advancement enabled Norway to develop North Sea oil and gas extraction?
Deepwater drilling technology
This technology has been crucial for efficient extraction in challenging offshore environments.
Where does the profit from taxes paid by energy companies in Norway go?
Wealth fund
-This fund is used to prepare for a future with fossil fuels and invest in environmentally sustainable projects.
True or False: Much of Norway’s oil and gas is imported.
False
Most of Norway’s oil and gas is exported, for example, to the UK.
What happens to the standard of living in Norway as a result of government spending from energy profits?
Increases
Government spending from energy profits contributes to enhancing the standard of living.
Fill in the blank: Norway’s average annual household energy costs are _______.
£4000
