How Much Electricity Does It Take to Power the World?

Provided by: TED-Ed |Published on: May 23, 2022

Articles/Websites

6789101112

Scientist Reviewed ↗

Synopsis

This TED-Ed video explains how electricity is generated, how much electricity demand is expected to increase, and how innovations in clean energy technology will revolutionize the energy sector.
Students will learn that switching to electric power is only part of the solution for combatting climate change. The clean energy sector will have to expand to serve the growing global population while eliminating fossil fuel use.

Related Teaching Resources

Subjects: Physics, Engineering

Authors: Lisa LaBracio

Region: Global

Languages: English

View Resource

Teaching Materials

Positives

This video offers a comprehensive explanation of the steps needed to power the world with electricity while also combating climate change.
The animations and visuals make this video appropriate for a wide audience.
The Dig Deeper tab includes additional resources and links, including a carbon footprint calculator, and a website that provides actionable steps people can take to reduce their electricity usage.

Prerequisites

Students must enter their names to take the quiz in the Think section. This is only allowed for students who are 13 years of age or older.

Differentiation & Implementation

Social studies or geography classes can discuss the growing need for power around the world. Students could reflect on the fact that more than one billion people do not have reliable electricity access and think of ways that the global population can work together to ensure clean electricity for all people.
Economics classes can discuss the economic opportunities in the renewable energy sector as well as the potential for government subsidies and grants.
Physics classes can discuss the difference between nuclear fusion and nuclear fission.
Other related resources include this interactive map displaying the share of electricity production from coal and this podcast about the benefits and challenges of wind and solar power.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

Standards

Resource Type and Format

Scientist Reviewed

This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.

Learn about our review process →

Related Teaching Resources

All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.

Cookie Preferences

How Much Electricity Does It Take to Power the World?

Synopsis

Teaching Materials

Scientist Reviewed

Related Teaching Resources