Energy sources
Energy sources are divided into two groups - renewable and non-renewable energy.
Renewable energy
Before the 18th century, most energy sources were renewable such as water wheels, windmills and burning wood.
Renewable energy sources are sustainable and regenerate naturally over human timescales. They include solar, wind, wave, tidal and hydroelectric power (HEP).
In 2016 renewables provided 44% of the EU’s electricity capacity and 15% of its final energy consumption.
Non-renewable energy
Dependence on fossil fuels escalated from the Industrial Revolution.
In 2012, 82 per cent of global energy consumption was from fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas.
The pie chart shows the types of energy used in the world in 2014.
Non-renewable energy sources are unsustainable and there is a finite stock. They will run out.
