World energy resources

Overview of global energy resources

Overview

Countries by natural gas proven reserves (2014)

World energy resources are the estimated maximum capacity for energy production given all available resources on Earth. These resources include fossil fuels, nuclear fuel, and renewable sources. The global energy demand is met by a combination of these resources, each contributing to the energy mix in varying proportions.

Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, have been the dominant sources of energy for decades. They are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years.

Coal

Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock, primarily composed of carbon. It is one of the most abundant fossil fuels and is used primarily for electricity generation and steel production. The largest coal reserves are found in the United States, Russia, China, and India.

Oil

Global distribution of remaining oil reserves

Oil, or petroleum, is a liquid fossil fuel that is extracted from underground reservoirs. It is refined into various products, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Major oil-producing countries include Saudi Arabia, Russia, the United States, and Canada.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is a gaseous fossil fuel consisting mainly of methane. It is used for electricity generation, heating, and as an industrial feedstock. The largest reserves of natural gas are found in Russia, Iran, and Qatar.

Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is produced through the process of nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom is split into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy. Uranium and plutonium are the primary fuels used in nuclear reactors. Countries like the United States, France, and China have significant nuclear power capabilities.

Renewable Energy

Renewable energy sources are those that are naturally replenished on a human timescale. They include solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal energy.

Solar Energy

Solar energy is harnessed from the sun using photovoltaic cells or solar thermal systems. It is a clean and abundant source of energy, with significant potential for growth.

Wind Energy

Wind energy is generated by converting the kinetic energy of wind into electricity using wind turbines. It is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources.

Hydroelectric Energy

Hydroelectric energy is produced by harnessing the power of flowing water, typically from rivers or dams. It is a well-established source of renewable energy.

Biomass

Biomass energy is derived from organic materials, such as plant and animal waste. It can be used for heating, electricity generation, and as a biofuel.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is obtained by tapping into the Earth's internal heat. It is used for electricity generation and direct heating applications.

Energy Transition

The global energy landscape is undergoing a transition towards more sustainable and cleaner energy sources. This shift is driven by the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The transition involves increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy mix, improving energy efficiency, and developing new technologies.

Related pages

• Energy development
• Renewable energy
• Fossil fuel
• Nuclear power