Energy is a vital input to all sectors of the economy. As well as supplying the power on which industry and households depend, the production and supply of energy provides employment, investment and export opportunities, all of which contribute substantially to the welfare and standard of living of Australians.
In 2003 the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) undertook an industry-wide survey of energy use. It covered an extensive range of energy and fuel types including electricity, natural gas, petroleum products, coal and renewable energy. The survey also collected data on the production of petroleum products, electricity and natural gas, and the associated conversion, transmission and distribution losses. The results of the survey are the most comprehensive set of Australian energy statistics in almost 20 years.
The supply and use of energy in Australia is summarised in the initial section. Subsequent sections describe Australia's energy resources, the production of these resources, foreign trade in energy products, and an analysis of energy use.
The chapter concludes with an article A snapshot of the largest energy users.
Print Page