MC11.1.1.1 - Energy consumption and electricity consumption - overview

Summary

This presentation explores current and future global energy consumption, highlighting the persistent reliance on fossil fuels despite efficiency efforts. Using scenarios from the International Energy Agency, it emphasizes the rising demand for energy and electricity and the urgent need for decarbonization. Key strategies for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 include enhancing energy efficiency, promoting conservation, expanding renewable energy, and electrifying economies. Special focus is given to urban areas, which account for most emissions and energy use, with strategies targeting buildings, transportation, and materials efficiency. Behavioral change and responsible energy use are underscored as critical for a sustainable, carbon-neutral future.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Global energy consumption is projected to continue rising, despite efforts to improve efficiency.
• ⚡ Electricity demand is expected to increase by 80% between 2020 and 2050 under current policy scenarios.
• 🛢 Fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) remain the dominant sources of energy in the near future.
• 📈 Achieving net-zero CO₂ emissions by 2050 requires drastic changes in energy generation and usage.
• 🏘 Urban areas, covering only 3% of Earth's surface, account for over 75% of emissions and 80% of energy consumption.
• 🏢 Improving building energy efficiency and adopting conservation measures are key strategies for reducing energy demand.
• 🚶‍♂️ Promoting active mobility (cycling, walking) and enhancing public transportation are essential for sustainable urban transport.
• 🔌 Electrification of industries, buildings, and transport must be coupled with renewable energy deployment to reduce carbon emissions.
• ♻ Material efficiency, recycling, and better building design can help reduce overall energy and resource demand.
• 👥 Behavioral changes at the individual level, such as energy-saving habits and responsible consumption, play a critical role in decarbonization.
• 📊 Coordinated efforts across governments, industries, cities, and citizens are necessary to meet global climate and energy goals.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the RESVercity energy consumption presentation?

The presentation aims to analyze energy consumption trends in the near future and explore strategies to decarbonize societies as part of the RESVercity project.

What are the two main insights from the IEA's Stated Policy Scenario (STEPS)?

First, despite efforts to implement energy-efficient technologies, global energy consumption continues to rise due to population growth, improved living standards, and insufficient technology dissemination. Second, economies remain largely dependent on fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.

What is the projected increase in total energy supply and electricity demand by 2050 under the STEPS scenario?

Total energy supply is expected to rise by over 30%, and electricity demand is projected to increase by 80%.

What is the Net Zero Emission Scenario proposed by the IEA?

It is a normative scenario aiming to achieve net-zero CO₂ emissions in the energy sector by 2050, requiring significant changes in energy generation, use, and efficiency.

What are the three primary strategies for decarbonizing societies mentioned in the presentation?

The three strategies are: 1) reducing energy demand and increasing efficiency, 2) adopting renewable energy sources, and 3) electrifying the economy wherever possible.

How can energy efficiency and conservation be promoted in buildings and urban areas?

Through better building design, improved urban planning, adoption of energy-efficient technologies, behavioral changes, and materials efficiency such as recycling and sustainable construction.

Why is electrification important for achieving net-zero emissions?

Electrification allows sectors like transportation and buildings to shift to electricity, which can then be sourced from renewable energy, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and carbon emissions.

Why are cities a key focus in reducing energy consumption and emissions?

Cities cover only 3% of the Earth's surface but account for over 75% of emissions and up to 80% of energy consumption. Additionally, more than two-thirds of the global population will live in urban areas by 2050, making cities critical for impact.

What role does behavioral change play in energy conservation?

Behavioral change helps individuals reduce energy consumption by adopting energy-saving practices, adjusting thermostat settings, choosing active mobility, and using public transport, complementing technological and policy efforts.

What are some specific actions suggested for improving transportation efficiency in urban areas?

Actions include promoting walking and cycling, enhancing public transport accessibility and electrification, and ensuring the power grid can handle increased electricity demand, including peak loads.

How do direct and indirect emissions differ, and why is this distinction important?

Direct emissions are produced from energy use in a building or vehicle, while indirect emissions come from the production of goods and services consumed. Understanding both is important to fully assess individual and societal carbon footprints.