Our society does not need energy per se. We use the various forms of energy to accomplish desired actions – commuting to work, keeping the interior of homes at comfortable temperatures, producing industrial goods, etc. The so-called “minimum energy” requirement for processes is actually a thermodynamic maximum, defined by exergy. The application of the exergy methodology determines the benchmark for the minimum energy resources that arerequired to perform the desired actions and tasks. The minimum energy benchmark is determined for several processes including: natural gas transportation, refrigeration, liquefaction, drying, water desalination, and petroleum refining. The energy requirements for the lighting, heating and air-conditioning of buildings are also calculated as well as the minimum energy for the transportation of goods and the commuting of persons in conventional and electric vehicles. Given their importance for the transition to renewable energy forms, the exergy method is applied to energy storage systems. Several examples in this chapter offer assistance and resources for the application of the exergy methodology to energy-consuming systems and processes.

Even when most of the public accept climate science and elect climate–sincere politicians, the fossil fuel industry and supporters have many rationalizations to delude politicians and citizens that a certain fossil fuel project is needed and consistent with national or global greenhouse gas reduction commitments. Those who see through these myths must develop “connect–the–dot” techniques to show other citizens how fossil fuel expansion in a given jurisdiction is inconsistent with global and national commitments. Success against expanding global fossil fuel supply depends especially, however, on national efforts to decarbonize electricity, transport, and other sectors that are not trade-exposed. Experts should be helping the public, media, and climate-sincere politicians with exposing the myth that “this fossil fuel project is essential.”