The energy mix
The Energy Mix
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In each region of the world, energy supply depends on the economic and political situation and the accessibility of different resources. Because of this, the distribution of consumption per energy source is not always the same from one region of the world to another - in other words, the energy mix varies.
So for example, there are more solar farms in California than in northern Europe, but oil, gas, and coal remain the most consumed energy sources worldwide.
Since the 19th century, fossil energy resources have allowed societies to prosper, by producing and distributing more and more goods and services to meet growing demand. Oil is easy to transport and high in energy content, so it is by far the main energy source in the global energy mix. However, humanity now needs to face up to new economic, demographic, and environmental challenges. That is why this model will have to change to a more varied energy mix, with increasing recourse to alternative energy sources (both nuclear and renewable).
The energy mix: definition
Each country uses energy differently, defining its own energy mix. Fossil fuels provide 80% of global energy, but this percentage has to come down over the long term. These resources are more complicated to produce, while requirements are growing and the specter of global warming looms in the background.
The energy mix confronted with new energy challenges
To maintain their economic development while emitting fewer greenhouse gases, societies will have to diversify and decarbonize their energy mix. This change should also bring about a more secure energy supply.
