こんにちは。今回は、2024年度第1回の英検1級の筆記(エッセイ)の出題トピックを取り上げてみたいと思います。お題は次の通り。
Will governments be able to keep up with increasing energy demands in the future?
(各国)政府は将来増大するエネルギー需要に対応できるか?
ちょうどAIによるエネルギー消費量の増大が話題になっていたところだったので、タイムリーなトピックです。ではいきなり英作文に入る前に、ちょっと関連動画を見て語彙を拾っておきましょう。
もくじ
関連するニュースーAIによるエネルギー需要の増加
その他参考記事
ゴールドマンサックスの記事です。
AI is poised to drive 160% increase in data center power demand (May 14, 2024)
「AIがデータセンターの電力需要を160%増加させる見通し」
https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/AI-poised-to-drive-160-increase-in-power-demand
ちなみにこの「poised to…」辞書などでは「~する用意ができている」といった意味が出てきますが、「~する見通し」「~と見られる」みたいに訳したほうがしっくりくる感じで、ニュースなんかではちょくちょくこの用法で出てきます。
もちろん、電力需要は社会経済全般で必要となってくるもので、AIだけに限ったことではありませんが、タイムリーな話題ということでちょっと触れておきたいと思います。ということで、回答例です。(AIによる電力需要も入れてみました)。
チャットGPTによる回答例
お題:Will governments be able to keep up with increasing energy demands in the future?
(各国)政府は将来増大するエネルギー需要に対応できるか?
回答例その1(CEFR B2レベル) 232words
As global populations grow and economies develop, energy demand is expected to rise significantly. Additionally, the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) is pushing up energy consumption even further. The question is whether governments can keep up with this rising demand. While challenges exist, governments can address this issue by focusing on renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and fostering technological innovation.
Firstly, AI-driven technologies, such as data centers and machine learning algorithms, require vast amounts of energy to operate. This growing demand puts additional pressure on energy systems. Governments must invest in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower to meet these needs sustainably. Many are already doing so, which helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and supports a more sustainable energy future.
Secondly, improving energy efficiency is essential. As AI and other technologies increase energy consumption, governments must ensure that buildings, transportation, and industries become more energy-efficient. Encouraging the use of energy-efficient appliances and supporting public transportation are effective strategies that lower energy needs and cut costs.
Finally, fostering technological innovation is key. Advances in energy storage, smart grids, and electric vehicles can help balance the increased demand from AI. Governments can support these innovations through funding and favorable policies.
In conclusion, while AI and other factors are pushing up energy demand, governments can keep up by investing in renewable energy, improving efficiency, and encouraging innovation. With the right strategies, they can create a sustainable energy system for the future.
いかがでしょう。キーワードは太字にしてあります。語彙は少し易しめでしたね。面接のときの回答であれば十分かと思いますが、筆記であればもうちょっとピリッとさせてみたいかもしれません。ということで、次はC1レベルです。
回答例その2(CEFR C1レベル) 240words
As global populations expand and economies advance, energy demand is set to escalate dramatically. The proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) further exacerbates this surge in consumption, placing additional strain on energy infrastructures. The critical question is whether governments can effectively manage this increasing demand. Despite the significant challenges, governments can address the issue by prioritizing renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting technological innovation.
Firstly, AI technologies, including data centers and machine learning algorithms, require substantial energy to function. This growing demand underscores the need for governments to accelerate investment in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. These sustainable alternatives are crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and ensuring a resilient energy supply.
Secondly, improving energy efficiency is imperative in the face of rising consumption driven by AI and other technologies. Governments must implement measures to ensure that buildings, transportation, and industries operate more efficiently. For example, the adoption of energy-efficient appliances and the promotion of public transportation can significantly curtail overall energy consumption, leading to reduced costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
Finally, fostering technological innovation is essential for meeting future energy demands. Advances in energy storage, smart grids, and electric vehicles are vital for managing the increased load from AI-driven systems. Governments should support these developments through targeted funding and favorable policies, ensuring widespread adoption and integration.
In conclusion, while AI and other factors are intensifying energy demand, governments can keep pace by investing in renewable energy, enhancing efficiency, and driving innovation. With strategic planning and commitment, they can establish a sustainable and reliable energy system for the future.
いかがでしょう。こちらも注目したい語彙は太字にしてあります。だいぶ語彙が増えて、表現したい内容がピシっと抑えられている感じになりましたね。参考にしていただければ幸いです。
以上、参考になれば幸いです!
ちなみにもともと筆記やスピーチ対策にトピック丸覚えは推奨していませんので、こうした回答はあくまで語彙や言い回しの参考用としてくださいね。
他のトピックはこちら!