Net energy gain

Net Energy Gain

Illustration of the net energy cliff.

Net energy gain is a concept in energy economics and ecology that refers to the amount of usable energy that is obtained from a particular energy source after accounting for the energy expended to obtain it. This concept is crucial in evaluating the efficiency and sustainability of different energy sources.

Energy Return on Investment (EROI)

The net energy gain is closely related to the concept of Energy Return on Investment (EROI), which is the ratio of the amount of usable energy acquired from a particular energy resource to the amount of energy expended to obtain that energy. A higher EROI indicates a more efficient energy source.

Importance in Energy Policy

Understanding net energy gain is essential for energy policy and planning. It helps policymakers determine which energy sources are most viable in the long term. Energy sources with low or negative net energy gain may not be sustainable, as they require more energy to produce than they deliver.

The Net Energy Cliff

The "net energy cliff" is a concept that illustrates the rapid decline in net energy gain as the EROI of an energy source decreases. As shown in the accompanying image, once the EROI falls below a certain threshold, the net energy gain drops sharply, making the energy source less viable.

Applications

Net energy gain is used in various fields, including:

• Renewable energy assessment
• Fossil fuel extraction analysis
• Biofuel production evaluation
• Nuclear energy efficiency studies

Related Pages

• Energy economics
• Energy Return on Investment
• Sustainability
• Renewable energy