The pie charts presented illustrate the distribution of energy sources employed in Australia in 2008, along with projected figures for 2030.
It is evident that a noteworthy transformation in the energy composition is anticipated over the designated period, particularly with a decline in reliance on coal and an increase in the utilization of oil and natural gas.
In 2008, coal was the predominant energy source, accounting for 39% of the total, followed closely by oil at 32.5% and gas at 22.3%. Other sources constituted a mere 3.6%, with hydro, solar, and wind contributing minimally at 0.2%, 1.3%, and 0.3%, respectively. Thus, the overall energy landscape was heavily dependent on fossil fuels.
By 2030, significant shifts in this energy matrix are projected. Coal’s share is expected to decrease to 27%, while oil will rise to 35.5%, and gas will increase to 32%. Meanwhile, the share of renewable and alternative energy sources will see a modest increase, with hydro rising to 0.7%, solar slightly decreasing to 1.2%, and wind showing a gradual increase to 1.2%. Notably, geothermal energy is anticipated to emerge, contributing 4.3% to the energy mix. These projections suggest a gradual move towards a more diversified energy portfolio.