Energy resources

Abstract

Energy resources from marine environments are of increasing importance. This is valid for both renewable and fossil energy resources: renewable energy represents at present only a minor percentage of global primary energy consumption but is growing very rapidly. Natural oil and gas are the most important offshore energy resources. Information concerning the amount of the producible and usable oil and gas resources depends on the geological conditions of the deposits, the state of the scientific and technical knowledge, the technological potential of the development, and production as well as on the economic and political requirements. Offshore and deepwater petroleum exploration and exploration in the Arctic are ongoing since decades. At present drilling activity has particularly increased in the “golden triangle” of Brazil, the Gulf of Mexico, and West Africa. The greatest potential of undiscovered oil and gas is assumed in deepwater settings at continental margins and in the Arctic realm. While it is believed that renewable energy has minor environmental impact, the production of oil and gas resources inherently comes along with a risk for the environment. Best practice regulations are necessary to reduce risks in the future.