What is sustainable energy? A comprehensive explanation from the basics to future prospects

Sustainable Energy Basics

What is Sustainable Energy? Basic Definition and Background

Sustainable energy refers to energy that maintains a balance between the environment and resources so that the current generation can use energy while also meeting the needs of future generations. Representative examples include renewable energy (solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, biomass) and energy-saving technologies that promote efficient energy use.

The concept developed against the backdrop of the oil shocks of the 1970s and concerns about global warming. Sustainable energy is not just about protecting the environment, it is also the foundation for achieving economic stability and social equity.

Energy types: Renewable energy vs. fossil fuels

Energy is divided into two main categories:

Renewable Energy

An energy source that is replenished by natural processes. For example, solar and wind power are inexhaustible.

Fossil fuels

Oil, coal, natural gas, and other limited resources emit carbon dioxide (CO2) every time they are used, contributing to global warming.

Understand the difference between primary and secondary energy

Energy is classified as follows:

Primary Energy

Energy that exists in nature (oil, sunlight, wind, etc.).

Secondary Energy

Energy obtained by converting primary energy (electricity, gasoline, etc.).

The electricity and gasoline we use every day are secondary energies that are processed from primary energy. Although electricity may seem clean, using fossil fuels to generate electricity emits carbon dioxide, so it is important to reconsider how we generate electricity.

Energy usage in Japan and the world

Status of primary energy used in major countries

Fossil fuels remain the world's primary energy source. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), approximately 80% of the world's primary energy supply will depend on fossil fuels as of 2023. On the other hand, the proportion of renewable energy is increasing year by year in European countries, with Germany and Denmark using wind and solar power as their main energy sources.

Japan's Energy Self-Sufficiency Rate and Issues: In Relation to SDG 7

Japan's energy self-sufficiency rate is very low at 12% (as of 2021), and the country relies heavily on imports. This has led to energy price fluctuations and supply risks. SDGs Goal 7 aims to "ensure affordable, reliable and sustainable energy for all," and Japan needs to increase its energy self-sufficiency rate and promote the introduction of renewable energy.

Renewable energy usage: Global and Japanese efforts

In Japan, solar power generation is the main source of renewable energy, but the spread of wind and geothermal power has been slow. On the other hand, the proportion of wind and geothermal power generation is high around the world, and in Iceland in particular, geothermal energy accounts for about 70% of the total energy supply.

The role and challenges of renewable energy

Types and characteristics of renewable energy

Renewable energy is divided into five categories:

Solar

It's clean but weather dependent.

Wind

It is possible to generate large amounts of electricity, but there are limitations on where it can be installed.

Geothermal

It is possible to ensure a stable supply, but development is costly.

Hydropower

Although highly reliable, building dams has environmental impacts.

biomass

It is possible to effectively utilize waste materials, but the supply is limited.

Advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy

merit

It emits little CO2, helping to combat global warming.
This will increase energy self-sufficiency and have economic benefits.

Disadvantages

It is easily affected by weather and geographical conditions.
Initial implementation costs are high.

Challenges facing renewable energy and future prospects

In order to expand the use of renewable energy, it is essential to reduce power generation costs and develop power grids. In addition, there are hopes for developments in battery storage technology to stabilize fluctuating power supplies, and in energy storage technology that utilizes hydrogen.

Energy mix and the realization of a sustainable society

What is the energy mix? Aiming for the 3Es

An energy mix is ​​a way of combining and balancing multiple energy sources. The "3 E's" are:

Energy Security

Reduce supply risk.

Economic efficiency

Provides cheap energy.

Environmental compatibility

Reduce CO2 emissions.

Energy Policy and Technological Innovation: Concrete Initiatives Towards Decarbonization

Policies are being implemented around the world with the aim of achieving carbon neutrality (effectively zero greenhouse gas emissions) by 2050. In Japan, in addition to promoting solar power generation, there are plans to utilize offshore wind power and hydrogen energy.

The potential of distributed energy systems and their contribution to local communities

A "distributed energy system" in which energy is produced and consumed locally reduces the risk of energy supply problems during disasters and also leads to the revitalization of local economies. For example, biomass power generation using local waste is attracting attention.

What we can do to tackle the energy problem

Energy conservation measures that are within reach: concrete steps that can be implemented at home and in business Saving energy is the first step towards sustainable energy that everyone can take right away.

What you can do at home: Use LED lighting and be conscious of saving electricity.
What companies can do: Install energy-saving equipment and utilize energy management systems.

Case studies of renewable energy adoption in small and medium-sized enterprises: Participation in RE100 and problem solving

RE100 is an international initiative that aims to cover 100% of the energy used with renewable energy. Many companies in Japan have participated in this initiative and are promoting the use of solar power generation and biomass energy.

Thinking about the future of energy: What we should do and the society we aim for

Solving the energy problem requires joint action by individuals, businesses and governments. Through environmental education and awareness-raising activities, we can raise awareness of sustainable energy for everyone.

summary

Sustainable energy is not only a key to protecting the global environment, but also to supporting our future. Let's aim for a society in which everyone can live in peace by promoting the spread of renewable energy, promoting energy conservation, and optimizing the energy mix.