Energy Literacy

Energy Literacy is an understanding of the nature and role of energy in the world and daily lives accompanied by the ability to apply this understanding to answer questions and solve problems. It is defined as conceptual fluency with the economic and social components of energy use. This course provides resources for individuals, educators and consumers to learn more about energy sources and power production, transmission and use. In the US, individual consumption choices will be a key determinant for improving energy sustainability and decreasing carbon emissions.

The energy market has undergone a rapid and transformative change in recent years, and while energy scarcity was once a
concern, this change has given way to energy abundance in new models and economic resources. Electrification, digitalization,
and new technologies and platforms all combine to present new and efficient options to energy consumers. Oklahoma is an energy producing state with not only great oil and natural gas supplies, but also renewable sources like wind and solar. In 2019 Oklahoma ranked #3 in Wind Energy, #3 in Natural Gas production and #4 in Oil Production.

An energy-literate person:

Can trace energy flows and think in terms of energy systems.
Knows how much energy they use, for what purpose, and where the energy comes from.
Can assess the credibility of information about energy.
Can communicate about energy and energy use in meaningful ways.
Is able to make informed energy use decisions based on an understanding of impacts and consequences.

Energy plays a major role in the everyday functions of our planet and all its life forms. From weather patterns and food chains, to human society’s daily electricity and heating needs, energy is the driver of everything we know. This US Department of Energy video series highlights the seven Energy Literacy Principles, which demonstrate energy’s role across the natural and social sciences.

Principle 1 – Energy is a physical quantity that follows precise natural laws.
Principle 2 – Physical processes on Earth are the result of energy flow.
Principle 3 – Biological processes depend on energy flow.
Principle 4 – Various sources of energy can be used to power human activities, and often this energy must be transferred from source to destination.
Principle 5 – Energy decisions are influenced by economic, political, environmental, and social factors.
Principle 6 – The amount of energy used by human society depends on many factors.
Principle 7 – The quality of life of individuals and societies is affected by energy choices.