General Problems of Collecting and Understanding World Energy Data [and Discussion]

• Published in: Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series A: Mathematical, physical, and engineering sciences Vol. 276; no. 1261; p. 431
• Main Authors: D. C. Ion, D. C. Leslie
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: The Royal Society 30.05.1974
• ISSN: 1364-503X; 1471-2962
• DOI: 10.1098/rsta.1974.0029

This paper attempts to improve the understanding of the available world energy supply data, which are being imperfectly interpreted and increasingly used. There are basic differences in reserves concepts and definitions between the primary energy resources. There is insufficient knowledge to justify the apparent precision of original measurements of most energy resources. The collection of energy data is in many diverse hands, but of paramount importance is collection close to source, because original estimates are progressively amended by opinions which are difficult to ascertain and assess. The factors affecting energy demand are not yet sufficiently understood to take full advantage of the potential of mathematical models. Cooperation between the energy industries must develop. Experience in preparation for the 1974 Survey of Energy Resources by the World Energy Conference illustrates these points of which an understanding is necessary for wise consideration of world energy problems.