Primärenergiebedarf

Primärenergiebedarf refers to the total amount of energy required to extract, process, and transport primary energy sources to the point where they are ready for use. This includes energy consumed in mining coal, drilling for oil and natural gas, generating electricity from nuclear or renewable sources, and transporting these fuels to power plants or end-users. It is a broader concept than Endenergiebedarf (final energy demand), which only accounts for the energy delivered to the consumer.

The calculation of Primärenergiebedarf is crucial for understanding the overall environmental impact and resource consumption associated with energy production and use. It takes into account all upstream energy losses and inputs. For instance, when calculating the Primärenergiebedarf for electricity, the energy losses during generation at the power plant, transmission, and distribution are all included, in addition to the energy used to extract the primary fuel (e.g., coal, natural gas, uranium).

Different primary energy sources have vastly different Primärenergiebedarfe. For example, renewable energy sources like solar and wind power often have a lower Primärenergiebedarf compared to fossil fuels, especially when considering the full life cycle, including manufacturing and decommissioning. Energy efficiency measures aim to reduce both the Endenergiebedarf and, consequently, the Primärenergiebedarf by minimizing the initial energy required. Policymakers often use Primärenergiebedarf data to set energy targets, assess sustainability, and implement energy policies.