Energy analysis

Abstract

The last few years have seen the introduction of a new discipline called Energy Analysis (EA). EA formalises the calculation of the energy requirements of any product or process. These requirements include not only the fuel and electricity consumed directly by the particular process in question, but also the fuel and power used indirectly to produce the goods and services associated with the process. Thus the energy requirements of a kilogram of potatoes includes the fuel and power used on the farm, in trucks and by greengrocers, and also that used to make the fertiliser, the tractors, the trucks, and so on. This report described the development of EA and examines its potential applications in New Zealand, by evaluating the arguments for and against its adoption.