Briefly explain energy resources and its classification

Energy Resources and Their Classification

Energy resources are vital for meeting the energy demands of society. They can be classified based on their source and characteristics into two main categories: primary energy resources and secondary energy resources.

1. Primary Energy Resources
   1. These are derived directly from natural reserves and include:
      1. Chemical Fuels: Fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), which are finite and formed over millions of years.
      1. Renewable Sources: Solar, wind, geothermal, and hydropower, which are constantly replenished by nature.
2. Secondary Energy Resources
   1. These are forms of energy generated from primary resources through conversion processes. Examples include:
      1. Electrical Energy: Generated from various primary sources and widely used for consumption.
      1. Steam Power and Hot Water: Produced from heating processes.

Subclassification of Primary Energy Resources

Primary energy resources can be further divided into:

1. Conventional and Non-Conventional Energy Resources
   1. Conventional Energy Resources: Well-known sources like fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas) and nuclear energy (uranium and thorium) that require significant human intervention to extract and utilize. They are finite and deplete over time.

(These sources have formed over hundreds of millions of years ago and when they are used, there will be no more for future generations. They are also known as finite energy resources.)

• Non-Conventional Energy Resources: Less established sources such as solar and wind, which need more exploration and technical advancements. They are considered infinite as they are naturally replenished.
• Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy Resources
  • Renewable Energy Resources: Continuously replenished(restored) by nature, including solar, water, wind, and hydroelectric power.
  • Non-Renewable Energy Resources: Once depleted, these resources cannot be replaced within a human timeframe. They are also known as expendable energy.  Examples include coal, oil, gas and nuclear energy.

Examples:

• Oil is a major resource with uneven global distribution, mostly in the Middle East.
• Natural Gas is abundant but difficult to transport.
• Coal has large reserves but faces environmental challenges.
• Uranium is crucial for nuclear power, which is controversial but emits no CO2.
• Hydropower is renewable but limited by geography and environmental concerns.