Scope of energy engineering for civil engineers

Energy engineering offers various opportunities for civil engineers to work in the field of energy management,
including renewable energy and sustainable building design. These are some areas where civil engineers can
apply their skills in energy engineering:

• Energy-efficient building design: Civil engineers can design buildings that are optimized for energy
efficiency by incorporating passive solar design, efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
(HVAC) systems, and energy-efficient lighting.
• Renewable energy systems: Civil engineers can design and install renewable energy systems such as
solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems to reduce reliance on non-renewable sources of
energy.
• Energy management and auditing: Civil engineers can conduct energy audits and manage energy
systems in buildings, industries, and transportation networks to identify energy-saving opportunities
and optimize energy usage.
• Energy modeling and simulation: Civil engineers can use software tools to simulate and model energy
consumption in buildings and systems, which helps in designing more efficient energy systems.
• Green building certification: Civil engineers can help in obtaining green building certification such as
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification by designing energy-efficient
and sustainable buildings.
• Infrastructure planning for sustainable energy: Civil engineers can play a crucial role in developing
sustainable infrastructure for energy production, transmission, and distribution by designing and
constructing smart grids, energy storage systems, and electric vehicle charging stations.
In conclusion, energy engineering offers a vast scope for civil engineers to contribute to sustainable energy
management and building design. With their knowledge and skills in construction, design, and project
management, civil engineers can help in creating a more sustainable future for our planet.

World energy status

The world energy status is constantly evolving, driven by factors such as population growth, urbanization,
technological advancements, and policy changes. Here’s an overview of the status, challenges, and opportunities
in the world energy sector:
1. Current Status:
• Fossil Fuels Dominance: Fossil fuels continue to dominate the world energy mix, accounting for
over 80% of total energy consumption in 2020. Oil, coal, and natural gas are the primary sources
of energy.
• Renewable Energy Growth: Renewable energy is experiencing significant growth, with solar and
wind energy being the fastest-growing sources of electricity generation. In 2020, renewable energy
accounted for 29% of global electricity generation, up from 27% in 2019.
• Energy Access: Around 770 million people still lack access to electricity, with Sub-Saharan Africa
and South Asia being the regions with the highest numbers of people without access to electricity.

2. Challenges:
• Climate Change: Climate change is a significant challenge for the energy sector, with the burning
of fossil fuels being the leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions. This has led to increased efforts
to shift towards cleaner energy sources.
• Energy Security: The security of energy supply remains a challenge, with geopolitical tensions,
natural disasters, and accidents posing threats to energy infrastructure.
• Energy Poverty: Lack of access to affordable and reliable energy is a significant issue, particularly
in developing countries. This impacts economic development, health, and education.
 3. Opportunities:
• Renewable Energy: The growth of renewable energy presents significant opportunities for the
energy sector, including job creation, increased energy security, and reduced greenhouse gas
emissions.
• Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in buildings, transportation, and industries can
significantly reduce energy consumption and costs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Energy Access: Providing access to affordable and reliable energy to the 770 million people who
lack it can improve their quality of life and support economic development.

4. Summarized Data:
• Fossil fuels accounted for 81% of global energy consumption in 2020. (BP, 2021)
• Renewable energy accounted for 29% of global electricity generation in 2020. (IRENA, 2021)
• Around 770 million people lack access to electricity. (IEA, 2021)
• Solar and wind energy are the fastest-growing sources of electricity generation. (IRENA, 2021)
• Climate change is the leading cause of global warming, with burning fossil fuels being the primary
source of greenhouse gas emissions. (NASA, 2021)

Energy uses in different sectors:

1. Transportation:
Transportation is one of the largest energy-consuming sectors globally, accounting for around 29% of
total energy consumption in 2020. The majority of this energy is derived from petroleum-based fuels.
Electric vehicles are gaining popularity, but they still only make up a small fraction of the total vehicle
fleet.
2. Buildings:
Buildings account for around 28% of global energy consumption. Space heating and cooling, lighting, and
appliances are the major sources of energy use in buildings. Energy-efficient buildings and the use of
renewable energy sources such as solar and geothermal are being increasingly adopted to reduce energy
consumption.
3. Manufacturing:
Manufacturing is another significant energy-consuming sector, accounting for around 24% of total energy
consumption in 2020. The primary energy sources used in manufacturing include electricity, natural gas,
and petroleum-based fuels. Energy efficiency measures, such as process optimization and equipment
upgrades, are being implemented to reduce energy consumption and costs.
4. Appliances:
Appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, are a significant source of
energy use in households and buildings. Energy-efficient appliances and labeling schemes, such as Energy
Star, have been introduced in many countries to promote the use of appliances that consume less energy.
5. Summarized Data:
• Transportation accounted for 29% of total energy consumption in 2020. (IEA, 2021)
• Buildings accounted for 28% of global energy consumption. (IEA, 2021)
• Manufacturing accounted for 24% of total energy consumption in 2020. (IEA, 2021)
• Space heating and cooling are the largest energy end-uses in buildings, accounting for around 55% of
total building energy consumption. (IEA, 2019)
• Appliances account for around 17% of total electricity consumption in households. (IEA, 2021)
References:
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). Global Energy Review 2021. Retrieved from
https://www.iea.org/reports/global-energy-review-2021
IEA. (2019). The Future of Cooling in Buildings. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/reports/the-future-of-
cooling-in-buildings
IEA. (2021). Energy Efficiency 2021. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-efficiency-2021
IEA. (2021). Energy Access Outlook 2021. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-access-
outlook-2021
BP. (2021). Statistical Review of World Energy 2021. Retrieved from
https://www.bp.com/content/dam/bp/business-sites/en/global/corporate/pdfs/energy-economics/statistical-
review/bp-stats-review-2021-full-report.pdf
International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). (2021). Renewable Capacity Statistics 2021. Retrieved
from https://www.irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2021/Apr/IRENA_Renewable-
Capacity-Statistics-2021.pdf
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). Energy Access Outlook 2021. Retrieved from
https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-access-outlook-2021
NASA. (2021). Climate Change: Vital Signs of the Planet. Retrieved from https://climate.nasa.gov/causes/
Energy scenario of Nepal
Nepal is a country located in South Asia, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. However, the
country has been facing significant energy challenges due to its limited energy resources and poor infrastructure.
The country does not have any fossil fuel reserves and relies heavily on imports of oil, gas, and coal. Much of
its population still depends on traditional biomass sources such as firewood, agricultural residues and animal
dung for cooking and heating. These sources are not only inefficient and polluting, but also contribute to
deforestation and environmental degradation. The current energy scenario of Nepal can be summarized as
follows:
1. Energy consumption in Nepal: Nepal's total primary energy consumption in 2019 was around 25,845
Ktoe (kilo-tonne of oil equivalent), with petroleum products being the largest contributor at around
41.5%. Other significant contributors include biomass (32.3%), electricity (18.3%), and coal (3.2%).
2. Electricity generation in Nepal: In Nepal, most of the electricity generation is through hydropower
plants. The total installed capacity of hydropower plants in Nepal was around 1,189 MW in 2021. The
largest hydropower plant in Nepal is the 456 MW Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project, which is
expected to be completed by 2022. Nepal also imports electricity from India to meet its domestic
demand.
3. Renewable Energy in Nepal: Renewable energy sources have a huge potential in Nepal, and the
government has been promoting the use of renewable energy in the country. As of 2021, the total
installed capacity of renewable energy sources in Nepal was around 1,443 MW, which is about 44% of
the total installed capacity of the country. The major sources of renewable energy in Nepal are
hydropower, solar power, and wind power.
4. Energy Access in Nepal: Despite progress made in recent years, Nepal still faces a significant energy
access challenge. According to the latest data available, around 83% of the population has access to
electricity in Nepal. However, access to electricity is much lower in rural areas, where only 63% of
households have access to electricity.
5. Energy Policy in Nepal: The Government of Nepal has been working on various policy and regulatory
reforms to promote the use of renewable energy in the country. The National Energy Crisis Prevention
and Electricity Development Decade Plan (2016-2026) aims to increase the country's installed capacity
to 15,000 MW by 2030, with a focus on hydropower, solar power, and wind power. The government
has also been implementing various subsidy programs to promote the use of renewable energy in the
country.
In conclusion, Nepal's energy scenario is dominated by hydropower, with significant potential for renewable
energy sources. Despite progress made in recent years, the country still faces a significant energy access
challenge, particularly in rural areas. The government has been working on various policy and regulatory
reforms to promote the use of renewable energy in the country.
References:
1. Statistical Pocket Book, 2020, Ministry of Finance, Government of Nepal.
https://mof.gov.np/uploads/document/file/Statistical_Pocket_Book_2077_78_English_Version.pdf
2. Nepal Electricity Authority, Annual Report 2020/21.
https://nea.org.np/files/downloads/Annual_Report_2077_78.pdf
3. Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, Annual Report 2020/21.
https://aepc.gov.np/uploads/annual_report/AEPC_Annual_Report_FY2077-78.pdf
4. Nepal Living Standards Survey 2019/20. https://cbs.gov.np
Energy consumption pattern of Nepal
Nepal is a country located in South Asia with a population of around 30 million people. The energy consumption
pattern of Nepal is dominated by traditional biomass and petroleum products. In this response, we will discuss
the energy consumption pattern of Nepal using the latest available data.
Nepal’s total primary energy consumption in 2019 was around 25,845 Ktoe (kilo-tonne of oil equivalent), which
is a small amount compared to other countries. The energy consumption pattern in Nepal is as follows:
1. Petroleum products: 41.5%
Petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), are the largest
contributors to energy consumption in Nepal. These products are mainly used in transportation and cooking.
The demand for petroleum products has been increasing in Nepal due to the growing number of vehicles
and the increasing use of LPG for cooking. Nepal imports all its petroleum products, mainly from India.
2. Biomass: 32.3%
Biomass is the second-largest contributor to energy consumption in Nepal. It includes the use of firewood,
agricultural residues, and animal dung for cooking and heating. According to the latest data available,
around 80% of Nepalese households still use traditional biomass for cooking and heating purposes. In
addition to traditional biomass fuels, Nepal also has significant potential for the development of other
renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and biogas. However, the use of these sources is still limited,
mainly due to the high initial investment costs and the lack of a favourable policy and regulatory
environment.
3. Electricity: 18.3%
Electricity consumption in Nepal has been increasing in recent years due to the government’s focus on
expanding electricity access and promoting industrial development but it still accounts for only a small
fraction of the total energy consumption. In 2020, Nepal’s electricity consumption was estimated at 4.2
billion kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is equivalent to about 2% of the total primary energy consumption.
Most of the Nepal’s electricity is generated by hydropower plants, which account for over 80% of the
country’s installed capacity. As of 2021, the total installed capacity of electricity in Nepal was around 1,838
MW, with hydropower being the largest contributor. However, electricity consumption per capita in Nepal
is still low compared to other countries in the region.
4. Coal: 3.2%
Coal accounts for a small percentage of the total primary energy consumption in Nepal. Coal is mainly used
in the brick industry and for heating purposes in other industries. Nepal has limited domestic coal reserves
and relies on imports from neighbouring countries.
5. Others: 4.7%
6. Renewable Energy:
Renewable energy sources have a significant potential in Nepal, and the government has been promoting
their use in the country. As of 2021, the total installed capacity of renewable energy sources in Nepal was
around 1,443 MW, which is about 44% of the total installed capacity of the country. The major sources of
renewable energy in Nepal are hydropower, solar power, and wind power.
Overall, Nepal’s energy consumption pattern is heavily skewed towards traditional biomass fuels, which have
significant environmental and health implications. The government of Nepal has been taking steps to increase
the share of renewable energy in the total energy mix to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil
fuels and to promote sustainable development. But progress has been slow due to various challenges, including
the lack of adequate infrastructure, financing, and technical expertise.
Points to note:
a) Economy is directly related to energy and ability to source the energy for a country. However, this being
an introductory course, the aspects of economics are not discussed here.
b) Energy consumption is but one of the indicators of country health. There are several other aspects that
are directly associated with energy.
c) Energy scenarios and consumption pattern may change very frequently. So, a large amount of statistical
data is used while discussing energy scenarios and consumption pattern.
d) This data may be outdated. The students are suggested to visit different portals that present this type of
data is visual form. A few of them are given below:
https://ourworldindata.org/energy/country/nepal
https://www.worlddata.info/asia/nepal/energy-consumption.php
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_in_Nepal

• Wikipedia is a good place to start. However, always be sceptical about content in Wikipedia
since data can be easily edited by people.
• International agencies like US Energy Information Agency, British Petroleum, International
Hydropower Association, International Energy Agency, and International Renewable Energy
Agency (IRENA) regularly publish energy related data.
• Data specific to Nepal can be found on websites of Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, Nepal
Electricity Authority, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Finance, etc.
Environmental aspects of energy
Energy production and consumption have significant environmental impacts that can lead to climate change, air
and water pollution, and other negative environmental effects. Here are some of the environmental aspects of
energy:
1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Energy production and consumption are the primary sources of
anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for around 75% of total GHG emissions
globally. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most abundant GHG emitted from energy use, followed by
methane and nitrous oxide. The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, is the primary source
of GHG emissions from energy production and consumption.
2. Air Pollution: Burning fossil fuels for energy also releases various air pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide
(SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants have detrimental effects on
air quality and human health, causing respiratory diseases and premature deaths. In 2020, around 7
million people died prematurely due to air pollution.
3. Water Use: Energy production also requires a significant amount of water. Thermoelectric power
generation, which accounts for around 90% of global electricity production, is the largest water user
among energy sectors, accounting for around 45% of global water withdrawals.
4. Land Use: Energy production can also have significant impacts on land use. For example, large-scale
hydropower projects can result in the displacement of local communities and the destruction of wildlife
habitats. The production of biofuels and biomass for energy can also lead to deforestation and land use
change.
Summarized Data:
1. Energy production and consumption account for around 75% of total anthropogenic greenhouse gas
emissions. (IEA, 2021)
2. In 2020, around 7 million people died prematurely due to air pollution. (IHME, 2021)
3. Thermoelectric power generation accounts for around 45% of global water withdrawals. (IEA, 2021)
4. Large-scale hydropower projects can result in the displacement of up to 80 million people worldwide.
(International Rivers, 2021)
References:
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). Global Energy Review 2021. Retrieved from
https://www.iea.org/reports/global-energy-review-2021
Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). (2021). GBD Compare | IHME Viz Hub. Retrieved from
https://vizhub.healthdata.org/gbd-compare/
IEA. (2021). Energy and Air Pollution 2021. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-and-air-
pollution-2021
International Rivers. (2021). Dams and Displacement. Retrieved from
https://www.internationalrivers.org/dams-and-displacement
Sustainable energy
Sustainable energy refers to energy sources and practices that can be maintained over time without depleting
natural resources or causing environmental harm. The use of sustainable energy contributes to mitigating climate
change, reducing air and water pollution, and promoting social and economic development.
Sustainable energy is the provision of energy such that it meets the needs of the present without compromising
the ability of future generations to meet their needs. This means that sustainable energy is power which can be
replenished within a human lifetime and so cause no long-term damage to the environment. Sustainable energy
includes all renewable energy sources, such as hydroelectricity, biomass, geothermal, wind, wave, tidal and
solar energies.
Sustainable energy is a significant and focal aspect of sustainability, an important consideration for human
development and activity. Sustainable energy is of importance because of the broad and growing nature of
energy use, there are numerous environmental impacts associated with energy systems and the significance of
energy to living standards and economic development.
Conditions are necessary to attain or shift toward sustainable energy:
1. Obtaining sustainable energy resources,
2. Employing advantageous energy carriers,
3. Boosting efficiencies of energy systems,
4. Mitigating lifetime environmental impacts of energy systems, and
5. Addressing nontechnical aspects of sustainable energy, such as
a. Living standards and lifestyles,
b. Economics and affordability, and
c. Societal acceptability and equity

Sustainable vs Renewable Energy:

(Source: Henrik Lund, in Renewable Energy Systems (Second Edition), 2014)
Sustainable energy can be defined as energy sources that are not expected to be depleted in a time frame relevant
to the human race; therefore, they contribute to the sustainability of all species.
This definition of sustainable energy and the preceding definition of renewable energy represent typical
definitions of both terms. They match rather closely the definitions given by the Internet encyclopaedia
Wikipedia. These definitions, however, reveal a difference in the significance of the two terms. Most important,
Wikipedia (2008) includes the word nuclear in the sources defined as sustainable energy sources. However, as
Wikipedia adds, for social and political reasons, there is a controversy as to whether nuclear sources should be
regarded as sustainable. Nevertheless, at the present technological stage, nuclear is not sustainable, since it needs
uranium, which is a scarce resource within the relevant time frame.
The same discussions seem to apply to carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, which have recently
been promoted as an important solution in the debate on how to combat climate change. Very often this solution
is proposed in relation to the use of fossil fuels, especially coal. Often the question is posed, why not continue
to burn coal and even invest in new coal-fired power stations when this technology can be made sustainable by
the use of CCS?
On the other hand, even though sustainable energy sources are most often considered to include all renewable
sources, some renewable energy sources do not necessarily fulfil the requirements of sustainability. For instance,
the production of biofuels such as ethanol from fermentation has in some life cycle analyses proven to be non-
sustainable. Again, this is a controversy that has not yet found a consensus.
Nevertheless, the conclusion is that sustainable energy in some definitions may include nuclear and fossil fuels
in combination with CCS, while these technologies and sources are not included in the definition of renewable
energy. On the other hand, renewable energy may include some biomass resources that may prove not to be
sustainable.