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Using Figure 10a, Figure 10b and your own knowledge, assess the extent to which renewable energy can be used to achieve energy security - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 5
Using Figure 10a, Figure 10b and your own knowledge, assess the extent to which renewable energy can be used to achieve energy security. Figure 10a shows a hydro-el... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using Figure 10a, Figure 10b and your own knowledge, assess the extent to which renewable energy can be used to achieve energy security - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Assess the extent to which renewable energy can be used to achieve energy security
Answer
Renewable energy sources, like the hydro-electric scheme at Scandale Beck, offer effective strategies to enhance energy security by providing sustainable and consistent energy supplies.
Understanding the Scandale Beck Scheme
The Scandale Beck hydro-power scheme is designed to generate up to 2400 MWh per year, sufficient to supply electricity to approximately 571 homes. Moreover, it significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to environmental protection.
Analysis of Energy Generation
The data from Figure 10b shows fluctuations in both potential and actual electricity generation, which are critical for assessing energy security. For example, while the potential output remains stable around 653.04 MWh, actual generation varies considerably due to factors such as water levels and turbine efficiency. In November 2015, actual generation was 646.00 MWh, but in April 2016, it dropped to 217.00 MWh, highlighting the dependency on specific environmental conditions.
Evaluating these variations is crucial for determining how effectively renewable energy can secure a constant energy supply.
Comparison with Other Energy Sources
Unlike fossil fuels, which are subject to geopolitical risks and market fluctuations, renewable sources like hydro-power tend to provide a more stable energy platform, although they may require substantial initial investment and ongoing maintenance. Continued improvements in technology and strategic planning can enhance reliability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Scandale Beck scheme showcases the potential of renewable energy in securing energy supply, its effectiveness is limited by environmental dependency and operational variability. Effective management and future technological advancements will be essential in optimizing such renewable energy strategies to achieve lasting energy security.