Question 1: What is 'renewable energy'?

Answer: Energy from sources that are naturally replenished, such as wind, solar, and hydro power.

Question 2: Define 'fossil fuels' and give two examples.

Answer: Fossil fuels are non-renewable energy sources formed from ancient organic matter; examples include coal and natural gas.

Question 3: What is 'energy security'?

Answer: The reliable availability of energy at an affordable price to a country's economy.

Question 4: Explain 'carbon footprint' in relation to energy consumption.

Answer: The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, or activity, often measured in CO2 equivalent.

Question 5: What is 'offshore wind farm'?

Answer: A group of wind turbines located in the sea to generate electricity from wind energy.

Question 1: Which region in the UK is most known for its offshore wind farms?

Answer: Eastern England

Question 2: Name two fossil fuels that are major sources of energy in the UK.

Answer: Coal and natural gas

Question 3: What percentage of the UK's electricity was generated from renewable sources in 2022?

Answer: Approximately 40%

Question 4: Describe one environmental impact of extracting fossil fuels in the UK.

Answer: Extraction can lead to habitat destruction, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Question 1: Based on the case study of North Sea oil fields, identify two challenges faced in extracting oil in this region.

Answer: Challenges include harsh weather conditions and the high costs of extraction infrastructure.

Question 2: Explain how offshore wind farms in the North Sea contribute to the UK’s renewable energy targets.

Answer: Offshore wind farms generate significant amounts of clean electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping the UK meet its renewable energy goals.

Question 3: Assess the impact of UK energy imports on national energy security.

Answer: Energy imports can enhance energy security by diversifying supply sources; however, reliance on imports exposes the UK to geopolitical risks and price fluctuations, which may threaten reliable energy access.

Question 1: Explain the causes of the UK's increasing reliance on offshore wind energy.

Answer: The UK aims to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, leading to government policies supporting renewable energy. Offshore wind is abundant and less environmentally damaging than fossil fuel extraction, making it a strategic choice to meet renewable targets.

Question 2: Analyse the reasons why the UK is transitioning from coal to cleaner energy sources.

Answer: Environmental concerns and international agreements on reducing greenhouse gases have prompted the UK to phase out coal. Technological advances and economic factors, such as falling costs of renewables, also encourage this transition.

Question 1: To what extent has the UK's investment in renewable energy sources been successful in reducing carbon emissions?

Answer: The UK's investment in renewables like wind and solar has significantly decreased reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to lower carbon emissions. However, challenges such as intermittency, storage, and high initial costs mean that renewable energy alone cannot fully meet demand, requiring continued diversification and technological innovation.

Question 2: Evaluate the social and environmental impacts of developing large offshore wind farms off the UK coast.

Answer: Offshore wind farms contribute to sustainable energy targets and reduce greenhouse gases, benefiting the environment. Social impacts include job creation and local economic growth, but concerns exist over visual impact, effects on marine ecosystems, and potential disruption to local fishing communities.