Global Primary Energy Consumption by Source

• This interactive and colorful chart shows the global primary energy consumption by source.
  
• Data begins in the year 1800 and includes traditional biomass, coal, oil, gas, nuclear, hydropower, wind, solar, modern biofuels, and other renewables.
• Various related resources and data are linked on the page.

Positives

• The chart can be downloaded as a PNG or SVG image and CSV file.

Prerequisites

• Students should be familiar with these terms: natural resources, renewable energy, nonrenewable energy, and energy consumption.

Differentiation

• Some assistance may be needed for younger students to read this graph and to understand the different variables.
• These students could also use a graphic organizer that explains different energy sources.
• Have students research and discuss ways they can be actively involved in cutting their own energy consumption by creating a "no energy waste" poster.
• Ask students to discuss and analyze the data presented in the chart with partners.
• Encourage students to use their persuasive speaking skills to convince their classmates that renewable energy is better than fossil fuels.
• As an extension, students can create an optimal renewable energy consumption plan for a community that meets specific criteria, conduct research on a specific country and its energy consumption, or have students pick one of the energy sources to complete a jigsaw activity.