Throughout Canada, there are different energy sources that produce and offer energy to residents and business owners. In fact, Canada ranks fifth as being the largest producer of energy in the world and there are renewable and non-renewable energy sources. The way in which Canadians are consuming energy is changing as there are various sources available and the Canada energy consumption by source varies from province to province.
Types of Energy Sources Throughout Canada
As mentioned, there are different sources of energy in all of Canada and this includes oil, coal, solar, wind, hydroelectricity, natural gas, tidal and biomass sources. In regards to non-renewable energy sources, Canada offers 1% of the coal resources in the world. There are also many reserves of crude oil as well as natural gas. Canada also produces Uranium and holds approximately 8% of the unmined uranium resources.
As for renewable energy, Canada has taken many steps to boost production to offset the use of natural resources. Hydroelectricity is generated by water that is stored behind a dam and is then driven to a turbine and a generator to produce energy. Water is the number one renewable energy source in Canada and it provides over 59% of the electricity generated. Wind turbines are also used, producing 3.5% of the energy. Biomass is another renewable energy source, though it only generates 1.4% of the electricity in Canada and the country is trying to increase the use of wind and solar energy generation as well.
Energy Usage Stats
Canada energy consumption by source varies per province as each area of the country has different demands. Overall, Canada consumes a lot of energy throughout the year as it is an industrious country. With mining, manufacturing and many other large industries, along with a growing population, Canada energy usage is always on the rise.
Oil is the main source of energy in the country and accounts for 31% of energy consumption. This is followed closely by natural gas at 28% and hydroelectricity at 26%. Nuclear energy accounts for 7% of energy consumption in Canada while coal accounts for 6% and non-hydro renewable sources for just 2%.
The Future of Canadian Energy Consumption
As the population in Canada increases, so will energy consumption and the future of consumption will definitely be a cause for concern. Luckily, Canada generates a lot of energy from various sources and with the Canada energy consumption by source varying, there is no concern of shortage in the coming years. The oil sands are producing large volumes of oil and Canada has placed much focus on the use of renewable energy. In fact, over the coming years, it is predicted that much of how energy is consumed now will be consumed by these renewable resources, including wind turbines and hydroelectric sources. As of now, more than 67% of the energy in Manitoba comes from renewable energy sources and this is expected to increase in this province as well as across the country.