Sekundärenergie

Sekundärenergie refers to energy that has been converted from a primary energy source into a more usable or transportable form. Primary energy sources are those found naturally in the environment, such as coal, oil, natural gas, solar radiation, wind, and hydropower. These primary sources must undergo a transformation process to become secondary energy.

Common examples of secondary energy include electricity, hydrogen, and biofuels. Electricity is generated from various primary sources through methods like burning fossil fuels, nuclear fission, or harnessing renewable energy. Hydrogen can be produced from natural gas or water electrolysis. Biofuels are created from organic matter.

The concept of secondary energy is important in energy economics and policy. It highlights the efficiency losses that occur during the conversion process from primary to secondary forms. For instance, when coal is burned to generate electricity, a significant portion of the initial energy content is lost as heat. Understanding these conversion efficiencies is crucial for optimizing energy use and reducing waste. The focus on secondary energy also acknowledges the infrastructure required for its distribution and utilization, such as power grids for electricity or pipelines for natural gas.