Energy use by sector
A key challenge for Victoria is the significant growth in the demand for energy. Victoria's current demand for energy is growing by an average of 1.6% per year.
In 2004-05 21% of Victoria's final energy was used in the residential energy sector and 42% in the transport sector.
Soruce: ABARE, Energy in Australia, 2006 (Table F)
Industrial
Energy consumption in the industrial sector is growing by approximately 1.2% per annum, and is projected to increase by 36% by 2029-30. Natural gas is the dominant energy source used in industrial sector.
Industrial energy use is dominated by the manufacturing sector and the subsectors of metal products, petrochemicals, and wood and paper.
Source: Energy in Australia 2006, ABARE
Commercial
Energy consumption is growing more rapidly in the commercial sector than any other sector. Energy consumption is projected to increase by 93% by 2029-30 with a growth rate of 3.7% per annum. Electricity is the dominant energy source used in the commercial sector.
Energy in the commercial sector is mainly used for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), lighting and water heating.
Residential
Energy use in the residential sector is predicted to grow by 53% by 2029-30. This is driven by the trend of increased appliance use and appliances which use 'standby' power. While appliances only account for 17% of energy consumed in Victorian homes, they generate 40% of household greenhouse pollution as most appliances use electricity rather than gas.
Energy in the residential sector is mainly used for space heating and cooling, and water heating.
Source: Victorian Energy Efficiency Action Statement, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2006.
Further information
- For more information on greenhouse gas emissions in Victoria see the Victorian Greenhouse Gas Inventory
- For more information on residential energy use see the You have the Power. Save energy campaign.
Top | Last updated 15/08/2006
