Why don’t we use renewable energy sources to replace declining natural gas production?
The potential for renewable energy to provide long-term sustainability and environmental benefits is extremely appealing. Unfortunately, there are no known renewable sources that can significantly offset the demand for natural gas in the foreseeable future. Natural Resources Canada predicts that between 1995 and 2020, energy from renewable sources will increase by 527 PJ or 21 PJ per year [Energy in Canada – 2000]. However, Canada uses nearly 10,000 PJ per year [Statistics Canada, 2003] and must replace approximately 900 PJ every year due to declines in oil and gas production [calculated by CSUG based on Alberta ERCB data and the Canadian hydrocarbon energy demand from Statistics Canada]. Even with significant technical breakthroughs and expected increases in Renewable Energy investment, natural gas is expected to be an increasing contributor to Canada’s energy supply. Sources: Our Petroleum Challenge: Sustainability into the 21st Century, Seventh Edition.
Related Questions
- How do Atmospheric Vortex Engine energy production costs compare with other conventional and renewable energy sources?
- Why don’t we just invest more money into renewable energy sources like solar and wind instead of nuclear?
- Why don’t we use renewable energy sources to replace declining natural gas production?
