Overview

Overview

Since the dawn of civilization, humankind has depended on energy for many uses. Energy is all around us and has played a role in nearly every aspect of society. Starting with the ability to use fire for light, heat, and cooking, to harnessing the atom for nuclear power, energy has been part of social and economic advancement. Energy is a fundamental and necessary aspect of manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and just everyday living. Our initial reaction may be to consider electricity when we hear the word “energy,” but electricity is only part of the many forms of energy on which we depend.

We must first consider what a significant role energy plays in our day-to-day lives, and in helping a society and economy to function. Were it not for accessibility to energy, you would not be able to be taking this course online. As a matter of fact, imagine a day without any form of energy. No electricity, no lights, no air conditioning, no driving, no manufacturing, and so on. You get the picture! Energy is a fundamental necessity of society and the economy. One way we will see how important energy is to society is to understand how it is reflected in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

• Discuss how the 4 Factors of Energy Provision present opportunities and challenges for individuals depending on their role in society
• Describe three key points about SDG #7 on energy
• Illustrate the connections between one of the 4 Factors of Energy Provision and the targets of Energy Sustainable Development Goal (SDG #7)

Lesson Activities

Questions?

If you have questions, please feel free to post them to the Questions about EGEE 401 Discussion forum in Canvas. While you are there, feel free to post your own responses if you, too, are able to help a classmate.