Atlas of energies. Which choices for which development?

This booklet, published in partnership with the French agency of environment and energy mastery (Ademe), presents a mapping of fossil, nuclear and renewable energy sources in the world and emphasizes the heterogeneity of their geographical distribution, in particular in the case of hydrocarbons. It shows the huge consumption differences between the different regions of the world. Finally, it puts the question of the energy choices the different countries have to face considering the demographic growth and the environmental impacts: what actions can be implemented to save energy? How can we take into account all environmental, economical and societal impacts of the different energy sources in a sustainable development context? How long will last the oil reign? Who controls the petroleum game: OPEC, oil majors or oil states? What will be the impacts on climate of the comeback of coal? When the gas peak will be reached? Does the development of nuclear energy worldwide represent a hope or a threat? What importance should be given to the potentialities of renewable energies and at what range? With more than 180 maps, graphics and tables, this document provides us with visual and synthetic elements of reflexion about these questions. (J.S.)