Energy Security Strategy (SL IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Energy Use

• MEDCs typically use more energy than LEDCs
• Countries with the highest energy consumption per person tend to be MEDCs and include countries such as Canada, Norway and Saudi Arabia
• Countries with the lowest energy consumption per person tend to be LEDCs and include countries such as Niger, Chad and Tanzania
• The greatest growth in energy use is occurring in LEDCs and newly emerging super-economies, such as those of China and India
• Development means more use of energy in:
  • Businesses and factories 
  • In homes as people buy more appliances and technology
  • Transport

Energy use per person in kilowatt hours (kWh)

Modern energy use

Energy Security

• Energy security refers to the availability, reliability, and affordability of energy sources to meet a country's needs
  • Adequate supply of energy ensures that there is enough energy available to meet the demands of individuals, industries, and the overall economy
  • Reliable supply of energy means that the energy sources can be consistently accessed and delivered without disruptions or shortages
  • Affordable energy supply ensures that energy is priced reasonably, allowing individuals and businesses to access and afford the energy they need

Aspects of energy supply in achieving energy security

• Energy independence is an important aspect of energy security, referring to a country's ability to produce or procure its own energy resources without relying heavily on imports from other nations
  • Diversification of energy sources and supply routes can enhance energy security by reducing dependence on a single source or supplier
  • Developing domestic energy resources, such as renewable energy or domestic fossil fuel reserves, can contribute to energy security by reducing reliance on external sources
  • International cooperation and collaboration in energy markets and policies can contribute to energy security by promoting stable and transparent energy trade relationships

• Energy efficiency and energy conservation play a crucial role in enhancing energy security by reducing overall energy demand and dependence on energy imports

Global energy security index

Energy Conflicts

• The unequal distribution of energy resources among different regions or countries occurs when certain areas have abundant energy resources while others face energy scarcity or lack access to modern energy services
  • This disparity in energy availability can create a power imbalance, where energy-rich countries or regions have a strategic advantage over those with limited energy resources

• Unequal access to energy sources can exacerbate existing socio-economic inequalities, as energy is essential for various aspects of development, including healthcare, education, and economic growth
  • Limited access to reliable and affordable energy can hinder social progress and perpetuate poverty cycles, leading to social unrest and potential conflicts
  • Energy-related conflicts may arise due to competition for scarce resources, territorial disputes over energy-rich areas, or disagreements on energy pricing and supply routes

• Geopolitical tensions can escalate when countries rely heavily on imported energy and are vulnerable to disruptions or geopolitical influences in energy markets
  
  • Inadequate governance, corruption, and lack of transparent energy policies can further exacerbate tensions and increase the likelihood of conflict

• Addressing energy inequities and promoting fair distribution of energy resources can contribute to stability, peace, and sustainable development

• Energy choices adopted by different societies are influenced by a huge number of factors that shape their decision-making processes
• The availability of different energy sources, considerations of sustainability, scientific and technological advancements, cultural attitudes, and political, economic, and environmental factors all play significant roles in determining the energy mix used by a society
• Understanding how these influences interact is crucial for comprehending why certain energy sources are preferred over others and how societal preferences may shift over time

Availability

• • The availability of different energy sources plays a significant role in influencing energy choices
  • Regions or countries with abundant natural resources such as oil, gas, coal, or renewable energy sources like wind, solar, or hydropower may opt for the energy sources that are most readily available to them

Sustainability

• • The growing concern for environmental sustainability has a profound impact on energy choices
  • Societies are increasingly considering the long-term impact of energy sources on the environment, including carbon emissions, air pollution, and resource depletion
  • This drives the adoption of renewable energy sources and cleaner technologies that have smaller environmental footprints

Scientific and Technological Developments

• • Advances in science and technology can shape energy choices
  • Breakthroughs in renewable energy technologies, energy storage systems, and energy efficiency solutions make these options more viable and attractive
  • Scientific research also provides valuable insights into the environmental impacts and feasibility of different energy sources, influencing decision-making

Cultural Attitudes

• • Cultural attitudes and beliefs can influence energy choices
  • Societal values, traditions, and perceptions of certain energy sources may shape preferences and acceptance
  • For example, societies with a strong cultural connection to nature may prioritise renewable energy sources due to their harmony with the environment

Political, Economic, and Environmental Factors

• • Political factors such as government policies, regulations, and incentives have a significant impact on energy choices
  • Economic considerations, including the cost and affordability of energy sources, can influence decision-making
  • Environmental concerns, such as the desire to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or mitigate climate change, can drive the adoption of cleaner energy alternatives

Energy Security

• • The need for energy security, which ensures a reliable and uninterrupted supply of energy, can also influence energy choices
  • Societies may prioritise energy sources that provide independence from external factors, reduce vulnerability to price fluctuations or geopolitical tensions, and enhance energy self-sufficiency

Case Study: Nepal

• Nepal is a developing country located between China and India
• The landscape is mountainous and includes much of the Himalayas
• The population is rural with only 16% of the population living in towns and cities
• Energy demand is very low but growing as the country develops

Energy use per person in Nepal and UK

Energy mix

• The main source of energy for 82% of the rural population is fuelwood
  
  • In urban areas, the use of fuelwood is 36%
• Nepal has no suitable coal, oil or gas reserves so these have to be imported
• Access to electricity has increased rapidly over the past 15 years
  
  • 88% of the population now have access to electricity
• Support from the World Bank has led to more investment in hydropower
  
  • There are now over 3000 micro-hydro plants in Nepal

Energy mix in Nepal

Case Study: Norway

• Norway is a developed country in northern Europe
• The demand for energy is one of the highest in the world
• The population is mainly urban with 83% of people living in towns and cities

Energy use per person in Norway and UK

Energy mix

• Norway has significant energy resources including:
  
  • 1% of the world gas reserves (17th in the world)
  • 0.3% of the world oil reserves (22nd in the world)
  • There are also some coal reserves
• Norway is one of the world's largest energy exporters
• Hydropower generates 90% of Norway's electricity and accounts for 65% of energy use

Energy mix in Norway

Sustainable future

• There are over 1500 hydropower plants in Norway
• Due to the issue of reliance on hydropower during the dry season and the environmental impact of large hydropower plants
• Norway is expanding other renewable energy sources
• Demand continues to increase
• Norway is expanding the number of wind farms:
  
  • There are currently 53 wind farms
  • 36 additional onshore and offshore are planned and due to be started or completed by 2030
  • Includes the world's first floating wind farm
• Norway is also investing in solar energy:
  
  • Homeowners in Oslo get a 30% subsidy for installing solar panels
• To reduce the consumption of oil Norway is encouraging the population to move to electric cars:
  
  • In 2021, 66% of all new car sales in Norway were electric