Daily electrical energy consumption of the world is quite an intriguing idea. But how exactly would you dtermine the daily electrical consumption of the world. On this feature, we try to estimate, and put into context the daily energy consumption of the world.
Energy is the ability to do work. It is part and parcel of out lives. But in the context of electrical power, ever wonder how much is being spent, each day in terms of electrical energy. How much of our resources are being spent for it? How much would a single day cost to satisfy all of it?
It is quite difficult to get an actual amount to all of it, but this is a futile yet interesting try to answer some of those questions. Bear in mind though that the figures are mere estimates from sources. What the heck though, let's give it a try, shall we?
For this experiment, we will use the data from the year 2008, from the US Energy Information Administration, which can be found here. It is stated that the annual energy consumed for the entire year in the world is around 51,460 Billion kW-hr. For purpose of having a conservative estimates, we will assume that the efficiency and conversation factor to produce that amount of energy is around 0.8.
That would mean that for each day in 2008, the world needed to produce and consumed around 176 Billion kW-hr. I made a table distributing that figure to its corresponding sources. Taking it further, we derive the weight and volume of the resources needed to generate this amount of energy.
From these estimates, imagine this, everyday, we spend around 1,493 Billion kilos of coal. We would need 1,787 billion liters of petroleum, which is also equal to having 715,000 olympic size swimming pool. And close to 51,076 billion liters of natural gas. Imagine having that number of 1 liter coca cola bottles, to satisfy our electrical energy consumption needs.
Imagine further, the carbon emission, and pollution that is involved in the process. That is why, as electrical engineers, it is a challenge unto to us to discover, more efficient, less polluting, but highly sustainable means of producing and utilizing power.
Are you up to it?
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