Description of methodology for calculating historical energy consumption and associated CO2 emissions

The paper presents a methodology for calculating worldwide historical energy consumption and associated carbon dioxide emissions developed by the International Energy Agency. The data used are based on information provided in annual OECD questionnaires: oil, natural gas, solid fuels and manufactured gases, and electricity. By introducing initial emissions factors and elements of the energy balances the database generates data on CO2 emissions with special emphasis on the electricity generation sector. Each of the 24 OECD Member countries are included in the database, as well as the total for all OECD countries and for three distinct regions (Pacific, North America, Europe). (author). 5 tabs