21. Energy

Abstract

Energy and water resources are critical for human wellbeing, but measures to secure their supply are inextricably linked and often conflict (Pittock 2011). Common to these resources is the need to supply a growing and wealthier global population while sustaining environmental health and responding to climate change. The following chapters explore key links between sustainable management of water and energy supply. Energy Currently the world’s energy is overwhelmingly sourced by combusting fossil fuels, a process that emits dangerous levels of greenhouse gases. Thermal electricity generators, including fossil fuel and nuclear power stations, require large volumes of water for steam generation to drive turbines, as discussed by Byers (Chapter 22) and Spang (Chapter 23). To mitigate climate change and increase energy self-sufficiency, there is great interest in low-carbon and renewable energy sources. Many renewable energy generators, however, also consume large volumes of water (Gerbens-Leenes et al. 2008). First-generatio