Factors at the national scale affecting demand for supply of energy and the balance between different sources Flashcards
What is the Role of Sustainability in Energy Demand and Supply?
Sustainability influences energy demand and supply by prioritizing renewable energy sources (solar, wind, etc.) that have minimal environmental impact and can be used indefinitely, rather than non-renewable sources like coal or oil that contribute to climate change and resource depletion.
How Does a Country’s Level of Development Affect Energy Demand and Supply?
Developed countries tend to have higher energy consumption due to industrialization, higher living standards, and a greater demand for electricity and transportation. Developing countries often have lower energy demand but may face challenges in meeting supply needs with limited infrastructure.
How Does Resource Endowment Affect a Country’s Energy Supply?
Countries with abundant natural resources (e.g., oil, coal, natural gas, hydro, wind) can generate energy more cheaply and rely on domestic sources. Countries with limited resources may import energy or invest in developing renewable energy technologies.
How Does Climate Influence Energy Demand and Supply?
Climate affects energy supply by determining the viability of renewable resources like solar (hot climates) or wind (coastal and hilly areas). It also influences demand; for example, colder climates have higher heating needs, and hotter climates have greater cooling demands.
How Does Income Affect Energy Demand?
Higher income levels generally lead to increased energy consumption, as people have more access to energy-intensive goods like cars, air conditioning, and electronics. Lower-income populations may have limited access to energy, particularly in developing countries.
How Does Technology Affect Energy Supply?
Advances in technology can make energy production more efficient (e.g., better solar panels, more efficient wind turbines) and make previously inaccessible resources more available (e.g., hydraulic fracturing for oil and gas). It can also lead to cleaner energy production through innovations in energy storage and smart grids.
How Does Pollution Influence the Balance Between Energy Sources?
Pollution concerns drive the shift from fossil fuels (which produce greenhouse gases and air pollution) toward cleaner, renewable energy sources. Public and government pressure to reduce emissions can lead to greater investments in renewable energy infrastructure.
What Role Does Energy Policy Play in Energy Demand and Supply?
National energy policies set the framework for energy production, consumption, and investment. Policies that promote renewable energy development, reduce subsidies for fossil fuels, or impose carbon taxes can significantly affect both the demand for and the supply of energy.
What is Energy Security and How Does It Affect Energy Supply?
Energy security refers to the ability of a country to consistently access reliable, affordable energy. A country may prioritize diverse energy sources (renewables, nuclear, domestic fossil fuels) to reduce reliance on imports, especially in geopolitically unstable regions or when facing supply chain disruptions.
How Do Government Incentives Affect the Balance of Energy Sources?
Government incentives, such as subsidies for renewable energy or carbon pricing for fossil fuels, can shift the balance of energy sources. These incentives encourage the adoption of renewable technologies and decrease the economic competitiveness of polluting energy sources.
How Does Geopolitical Influence Affect Energy Demand and Supply?
Geopolitical factors, such as conflicts over fossil fuel reserves or trade routes, can impact energy supply. Countries may seek energy independence by diversifying their energy sources or increasing domestic production to reduce reliance on politically unstable regions.
How Does Energy Efficiency Impact Energy Demand?
As energy efficiency improves (e.g., better insulation in buildings, more efficient appliances), the demand for energy can decrease, as less energy is needed to perform the same tasks. This can reduce overall energy consumption and shift the energy mix toward more sustainable sources.
What is the Role of Public Awareness in Shaping Energy Demand?
Public awareness campaigns can influence energy demand by promoting energy conservation, the use of renewable energy, and the reduction of waste. Education about environmental issues and the long-term benefits of sustainable energy sources can lead to changes in consumer behavior.
How Does Economic Growth Affect Energy Demand?
Economic growth typically leads to higher energy demand as industrial production, transportation, and residential consumption rise. As economies grow, more energy is needed to power factories, transport goods, and meet the needs of a growing population.
How Do Global Energy Markets Affect National Energy Supply?
Global energy markets influence the price and availability of energy resources. For example, oil prices are determined by international trade and geopolitical factors, and fluctuations can impact the cost of energy production in different countries, influencing their energy mix.
