The Bureau of Resources and Energy Economics (BREE) has released its Energy in Australia 2013 report, providing a detailed report into the state of play of energy in Australia, including resources, production, consumption, trade and prices.

"Understanding developments and trends in the energy sector and knowing the key facts and figures ensures policy and investment decisions are informed by up-to-date information and robust analysis,” BREE’s Chief Economist Professor Quentin Grafton said.

Publications such as Energy in Australia 2013 increase our understanding of the energy sector and provide important information for planning Australia's energy future". Professor Grafton stated.

The publication shows that the energy industry is a significant contributor to the Australian economy, and accounts for around 6 per cent of total industry value added in 2010–11, or around $79 billion.

The report confirms Australia as the world’s ninth largest energy producer, accounting for an estimated 2.7 per cent of world production and 6 per cent of the world’s energy exports.

Australia's energy resources generated $77 billion worth of energy exports in 2011–12 while also providing Australian households and businesses with a secure, reliable and affordable domestic energy supply.

Most of Australia's electricity continues to be produced using coal. However, the trend of coal used for electricity generation decreased from about 75 per cent in 2009–10 to 69 per cent of total generation in 2011–12. Gas increased from about 15 per cent in 2009–10 to around 20 per cent of electricity generation in 2011–12. Renewable energy sources for electricity generation increased from 8 per cent in 2009–10 to about 10 per cent of electricity generation in 2011–12.

For free downloads of Energy in Australia 2013, please visit the BREE website www.bree.gov.au.