Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Coming from the Czech word 'robota',(18)______. In 1949, the British inventor William Grey Walter introduced the first machine (19)______. Ten years later, the first industrial robotic arm was installed at a General Motors plant in the US. Such robots are mostly used in car and computer industries.

The first robot to use Artificial Intelligence was known as Shakey. (20)______. Shakey could observe its surroundings, create a plan, and find its way across a room or push a box along the floor. Twenty years later, a walking robot called Dante, which was capable of climbing steep slopes, (21)______. The late 1990s marked a milestone in the history of robots when Kismet, a robotic head designed to provoke and react to emotions, was created.

Since the beginning of the 21st century, more robots have been created to improve our life. The first self-driving car was launched on 8 October 2005 when a Volkswagen Touareg named "Stanley' won a racing competition across the desert. In 2012, the AI expert Geoffrey Hinton and his team created the first accurate visual recognition system.

(22) ______. She can imitate human gestures and facial expressions and is able to answer certain questions and to make simple conversations.

Read the following passage about humanoid robots and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

         The future of electric vehicles (EVs) is promising, as technological advancements and environmental concerns (18) __________. As governments worldwide implement stricter emissions regulations and offer incentives for EV adoption, manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development. (19) __________, resulting in longer ranges and faster charging times. For instance, new solid-state batteries have the potential to enhance energy density and safety, making EVs more practical for everyday use.

         Additionally, the rise of autonomous driving technology is set to revolutionize the way we interact with vehicles. Many electric models are now equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (20) __________. Furthermore, the integration of smart technology allows for seamless connectivity, enabling drivers to monitor their vehicle's performance and locate charging stations through mobile apps.

         As charging infrastructure continues to expand, (21) __________, the convenience of owning an EV is increasing. This transition to electric vehicles not only promises a reduction in carbon emissions but also fosters a cleaner, healthier environment. Overall, (22) __________ and sustainable transportation.

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 7 to 12.

Discover the Digital Portfolio App

Looking for an innovative way to enhance your learning experience? The Digital Portfolio app is here to transform the way you engage with education!

A (7)______of benefits make this app a must-have for students and teachers alike. With its user-friendly interface, it helps users stay organized and track their academic progress effortlessly. One of its standout features is enabling students and teachers to connect by engaging with each (8)______in real-time. Whether it's to give (9) ______on homework or collaborate on group projects, this app bridges the gap in communication.

Teachers can use the app to explain (10) ______clearly with the help of interactive tools, ensuring students grasp even the most complex topics. The app has already (11) ______really well in schools worldwide, proving its effectiveness in modern education. (12) ______ accessibility, the Digital Portfolio app is compatible with multiple devices, ensuring seamless use anywhere, anytime.

Join the future of learning with the Digital Portfolio app today!

Read thefollowing passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that bestfits each of the numbered blanksfrom 18 to 22. 

 In today’s digital world, (18) ______ . There are many tools, which have been created to protect people’s data from online threats. One of the most popular tools is encryption, (19) ______. When encryption is used, even if someone tries to steal the information, they cannot read it without the correct key.

Another important security tool is called multi-factor authentication (MFA). In this process, more than one way of verifying identity is needed to log in. For example, (20) ______. This makes it harder for hackers to access accounts. Biometric technology, (21) ______, is also used to keep information secure. This technology relies on personal features that are unique and hard to copy

A virtual private network (VPN) is another tool that is commonly used. When a VPN is turned on, a person’s online activity is hidden, and their data is kept private. With these technologies, people are given better control over their security, (22) ______.  

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 7 to 12.

Discover the Digital Portfolio App

Looking for an innovative way to enhance your learning experience? The Digital Portfolio app is here to transform the way you engage with education!

A (7)______of benefits make this app a must-have for students and teachers alike. With its user-friendly interface, it helps users stay organized and track their academic progress effortlessly. One of its standout features is enabling students and teachers to connect by engaging with each (8)______in real-time. Whether it's to give (9) ______on homework or collaborate on group projects, this app bridges the gap in communication.

Teachers can use the app to explain (10) ______clearly with the help of interactive tools, ensuring students grasp even the most complex topics. The app has already (11) ______really well in schools worldwide, proving its effectiveness in modern education. (12) ______ accessibility, the Digital Portfolio app is compatible with multiple devices, ensuring seamless use anywhere, anytime.

Join the future of learning with the Digital Portfolio app today!

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 28 to 32.

[I] Artificial Intelligence (AI) is likely to improve your engagement in non-STEM subjects (Literature, Art, Education, and Humanities). [II] For instance, AI-powered language learning platforms like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone use natural language processing and machine instructions to provide personalised learning experiences. [III] This can help you learn at your own pace and in your own way, thereby, increasing engagement and motivation. [IV]

AI-powered writing and grammar tools such as Grammarly and Hemingway can provide instant feedback and suggestions for alternative phrasing and word choices. By analysing your grammar, vocabulary, and style, these tools can take your writing skills to the next level and help you communicate better.

Similarly, you can play AI-powered educational games in history and social studies classes. Games like Civilization and Age of Empires use AI to create realistic historical simulations that can help you understand historical events and concepts more enjoyably and interactively.

In music and art, there are creative tools such as Amper Music and Dream. These tools use AI to create original music and art based on users’ input. This can provide you with fun and imaginative ways to study these subjects.

AI tools and platforms can be accessible to all students regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status. If you do not have access to traditional educational resources, you can use your mobile devices to access them free of charge.

Overall, AI can stimulate your interest in non-STEM subjects by providing personalised instructions, creating various learning experiences, and offering real-time feedback and support. As AI technology continues to evolve, you can expect to see even more innovative uses of AI in non-STEM education.

(Adapted from English Workbook 12 – Global Success)

The word them in paragraph 5 refers to .

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 6.

Discover the Future of Tech with SmartGadgets

• Experience (1)___________like never before with our smartphones that redefine connectivity.

• Our (2)_____________ will enhance your daily life and keep you ahead of the curve.

• Join thousands of customers (3)________with their purchases and enjoy unparalleled performance.

• Show the features (4)_________ your customers that truly set you apart from the competition.

• Don’t miss out on this (5)_______-in-a-lifetime opportunity to upgrade your tech.

• Start (6)_________the benefits of advanced technology today, or wait for the future to catch up!

With SmartGadgets, you're not just purchasing a product; you're investing in a lifestyle. Explore our collection now!

Read the following passage about endangered languages and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questionsfrom 23 to 30. 

Technology in Education

[I] Education, as a cornerstone of societal progress, has undergone significant transformations with the advent of technology. While traditional teaching methods relied heavily on direct teacher-student interactions, modern classrooms are now enriched with digital tools and platforms that facilitate an immersive learning experience. [II] However, the integration of technology into education brings both challenges and opportunities, necessitating a balanced approach to ensure equitable and effective learning outcomes for all students. [III]

[IV] One of the most notable benefits of technology in education is the accessibility it offers. Online learning platforms, such as Khan Academy and Coursera, enable learners to access quality education regardless of their geographical location. Additionally, adaptive learning technologies tailor educational content to suit individual students' needs, fostering a more personalized learning experience. Despite these advantages, over-reliance on technology can exacerbate inequalities, as not all students have equal access to devices and high-speed internet. This digital divide remains a pressing issue, particularly in underprivileged communities.

Furthermore, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education has gained significant attention. AI-powered tools, such as virtual tutors and automated grading systems, have revolutionized the way students learn and teachers manage classrooms. For instance, chatbots can provide instant feedback to students, while data analytics help educators identify struggling learners and address their needs proactively. Nevertheless, critics argue that such innovations might reduce the importance of human interaction, which is crucial for developing critical thinking and emotional intelligence.

Finally, the effectiveness of technology in education hinges on proper implementation and training. Teachers must be adequately equipped to navigate digital tools and integrate them into their teaching practices. Moreover, fostering digital literacy among students is vital to ensure they can use these resources effectively and responsibly. As education systems worldwide embrace digital transformation, policymakers must prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that technological advancements benefit everyone.

The word their in paragraph 3 refers to:

Read the following passage about human life expectancy and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30. 

Nomophobia, short for "no-mobile-phone phobia," is a modern phenomenon that affects many people in today's digital age.

What is nomophobia? It is the irrational fear of being without one's mobile phone or being unable to use it. This condition can cause anxiety and distress, and it highlights the profound impact mobile devices have on our lives. The fear of losing or being separated from one's phone is a growing concern. Some common situations that trigger nomophobia include misplacing one's phone, running out of battery, or losing network signal. The fear intensifies when people imagine not having their phones to contact friends and family, access the internet, or use GPS for navigation.

Who easily suffers from nomophobia? Nomophobia is not limited to any age group and can affect individuals of all backgrounds. It often becomes evident when people experience panic or anxiety when they forget their phones at home or are unable to use them temporarily. Symptoms may include restlessness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and a sense of insecurity.

The roots of nomophobia lie in the convenience and connectedness that mobile phones provide. These devices have become integral to our daily lives, serving as not just communication tools but also cameras, entertainment hubs, personal organizers, and more. This dependence on mobile phones can lead to a feeling of vulnerability when separated from them.

The word “vulnerability” in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to ______.

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SPORT

The first sports game was televised in the USA over fifty years ago. In the following decades, television provided coaches with a wealth of information to analyse. By viewing recordings,(18)______. Moreover, coaching staff could detect factors related to team or athlete performance. In fact,  most of this data consisted of bare statistics without meaningful context.(19)______.

AI involves developing computer systems capable of tasks linked to human intelligence, such as decision making. AI can analyse not only a player's actions but also their relation to the coach's directives and other players' actions. Sports scientists believe AI is revolutionizing coaching by identifying patterns of behavior in ways previously impossible.

There may be limitless ways (20)______, but practical applications are emerging. A recent experiment in the Spanish football league used AI to analyse the passing strategies of 20 teams. The research revealed that Barcelona and Real Madrid (21)______. However, the algorithm detected just 31 passing patterns by Atlético Madrid. All other plays were unique, and the team won the league that season. One conclusion is that teams with a less predictable style of play are harder to counter. (22)______. Furthermore, Dr. Johann Muller, a sports scientist, observed that teams prioritizing offence suffer more injuries.

Read the following asvertisment and mark the leeter A, B, C and D on your answer sheer to indeicate the option that best fit each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 6.

Step into Tomorrow with GREEN TECHNOLOGY – Where Science Meets Innovation!

Are you ready (1) _____ the endless possibilities of science and technology? At Green Technology, we're dedicated to revolutionizing the way you live, work, and play. Our cutting-edge innovations and solutions bring the exciting future into the dynamic present, making advanced technology even smarter, significantly faster, and (2) _____ . 

Why Choose Green Technology?

Leading-Edge Products: From AI-powered devices to advanced robotics, we provide you (3) ______  the tools to stay ahead of the curve.

Eco-Friendly Solutions: Harness technology that cares for the planet, with sustainable products (4) ______  to reduce your carbon footprint.

Secure & Reliable: Our experts ensure every solution is built on trust and security, so you can (5) ______ with confidence.

Join the Innovation Revolution

Visit Greentechnology.com today and discover how our products are (6) ______   the gap between science fiction and science reality. Let’s shape the future together—one breakthrough at a time!

Read the following passage about smart energy and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

SMART ENERGY

The upcoming decades will bring significant changes in energy supply and consumption. As some major oil-producing countries have already reached 'peak oil' and concerns about global warming rise, many nations are prioritizing the transition to a low-carbon economy, which will transform electricity supply and usage. [I] Firstly, there will be an increase in overall demand, as consumers switch from oil and gas to electricity to power their homes and vehicles. [II] Secondly, there will be an increase in power generation, not only in terms of how much is generated, but also how it is generated, as there is growing electricity generation from renewable sources. [III] To meet these challenges, countries are investing in Smart Grid technology. [IV] This system aims to provide the electricity industry with a better understanding of power generation and demand, and to use this information to create a more efficient power network.

Smart meters can be integrated with the internet or telephone networks. This connectivity enables customers to control their appliances from a distance. For instance, individuals can turn devices on or off remotely, providing added convenience. Overall, the system offers significant benefits in managing energy usage. By analyzing real-time data, it allows for better decision-making. This technology not only improves efficiency but also supports cost savings. Ultimately, the integration of smart technology will enhance user experience and system management.

The coming decades will bring significant shifts in energy supply and usage. A problem is the fact that many renewable power generation sources are located in remote areas, such as windy uplands and coastal regions, where there is currently a lack of electrical infrastructure. New infrastructures therefore must be built. Thankfully, with improved smart technology, this can be done more efficiently by reducing the reinforcement or construction costs.

Although Smart Technology is still in its infancy, pilot schemes to promote and test it are already underway. Consumers are currently testing the new smart meters which can be used in their homes to manage electricity use. There are also a number of demonstrations being planned to show how the smart technology could practically work, and trials are in place to test the new electrical infrastructure. It is here where Smart Technology is likely to be promoted first, utilising a range of sustainable power sources, transport solutions and an infrastructure for charging electrically powered vehicles. The infrastructure is already changing fast.

The word underway in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to _____.

Read the following passage about humanoid robots and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

         The future of electric vehicles (EVs) is promising, as technological advancements and environmental concerns (18) __________. As governments worldwide implement stricter emissions regulations and offer incentives for EV adoption, manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development. (19) __________, resulting in longer ranges and faster charging times.

For instance, new solid-state batteries have the potential to enhance energy density and safety, making EVs more practical for everyday use.

         Additionally, the rise of autonomous driving technology is set to revolutionize the way we interact with vehicles. Many electric models are now equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (20) __________. Furthermore, the integration of smart technology allows for seamless connectivity, enabling drivers to monitor their vehicle's performance and locate charging stations through mobile apps.

         As charging infrastructure continues to expand, (21) __________, the convenience of owning an EV is increasing. This transition to electric vehicles not only promises a reduction in carbon emissions but also fosters a cleaner, healthier environment. Overall, (22) __________ and sustainable transportation.

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 13 to 17

a. Digital tools have revolutionized the way we learn and teach, allowing for a more interactive and promoting educational experience.

b. In fact, many schools have adopted online platforms and virtual classrooms, providing students with flexibility and access to resources from anywhere.

c. This shift toward digital education has made learning more accessible for students with different needs, especially in remote or underserved areas.

d. Additionally, teachers now incorporate multimedia resources, such as videos, games, and interactive exercises, into their lessons to enhance learning outcomes.

e. As technology continues to evolve, the educational landscape will continue to transform, providing new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Coming from the Czech word 'robota',(18)______. In 1949, the British inventor William Grey Walter introduced the first machine (19)______. Ten years later, the first industrial robotic arm was installed at a General Motors plant in the US. Such robots are mostly used in car and computer industries.

The first robot to use Artificial Intelligence was known as Shakey. (20)______. Shakey could observe its surroundings, create a plan, and find its way across a room or push a box along the floor. Twenty years later, a walking robot called Dante, which was capable of climbing steep slopes, (21)______. The late 1990s marked a milestone in the history of robots when Kismet, a robotic head designed to provoke and react to emotions, was created.

Since the beginning of the 21st century, more robots have been created to improve our life. The first self-driving car was launched on 8 October 2005 when a Volkswagen Touareg named "Stanley' won a racing competition across the desert. In 2012, the AI expert Geoffrey Hinton and his team created the first accurate visual recognition system.

(22) ______. She can imitate human gestures and facial expressions and is able to answer certain questions and to make simple conversations.

Read the following passage about humanoid robots and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Humanoid robots, eminent characters in science fiction novels and sci-fi films, are becoming a reality. Sophia, as an example, (18) ______________. One month later, she had her premiere in Texas, USA, and has made multiple public appearances around the world since then. At one such event, Sophia was granted Saudi Arabian citizenship in October 2017 and even became the first Innovation Champion of the United Nations Development Programme later that year. During Sophia's trip to Vietnam in 2018, she addressed the Industry 4.0 Summit and Expo.

Sophia the Robot is the latest humanlike robot created by a Hong Kong-based company (19) ______________. Undoubtedly, Sophia together with other humanlike robots represents the rapid advancement in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. (20) ______________.

Sophia's physical appearance is inspired by both the famous actress Audrey Hepburn and the creator's wife. (21) ______________. But what makes her more lifelike than other robots is the patented artificial skin called Frubber®, which has the feel and flexibility of human skin.

Sophia amazes the world with her ability to communicate naturally. The Sophia Intelligence Collective, which is a combination of Al and human input, and other sophisticated perception techniques enable Sophia to recognise human faces and identify human emotions and gestures. Equipped with machine learning algorithms, (22) ______________.

(Adapted from Friends Global)

Question 21: (21) ______________.

Read the following passage about humanoid robots and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Humanoid robots, eminent characters in science fiction novels and sci-fi films, are becoming a reality. Sophia, as an example, (18) ______________. One month later, she had her premiere in Texas, USA, and has made multiple public appearances around the world since then. At one such event, Sophia was granted Saudi Arabian citizenship in October 2017 and even became the first Innovation Champion of the United Nations Development Programme later that year. During Sophia's trip to Vietnam in 2018, she addressed the Industry 4.0 Summit and Expo.

Sophia the Robot is the latest humanlike robot created by a Hong Kong-based company (19) ______________. Undoubtedly, Sophia together with other humanlike robots represents the rapid advancement in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. (20) ______________.

Sophia's physical appearance is inspired by both the famous actress Audrey Hepburn and the creator's wife. (21) ______________. But what makes her more lifelike than other robots is the patented artificial skin called Frubber®, which has the feel and flexibility of human skin.

Sophia amazes the world with her ability to communicate naturally. The Sophia Intelligence Collective, which is a combination of Al and human input, and other sophisticated perception techniques enable Sophia to recognise human faces and identify human emotions and gestures. Equipped with machine learning algorithms, (22) ______________.

(Adapted from Friends Global)

Question 19: Sophia the Robot is the latest humanlike robot created by a Hong Kong-based company (19) ______________.

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

DEPENDENCE ON TECHNOLOGY: TIME FOR CHANGE!

[I] Los Angeles dancer, Brian Perez, was eating out with his friends one evening when suddenly everyone went quiet. [II] To his horror, he saw that the reason for this was that people were checking their phones. [III] What if they all put their gadgets in a pile in the middle of the table until they had finished the meal? [IV] If anyone picked up their phone, that person would have to pay the whole bill. And so, it is said, the game of 'phone stacking' was born.

The necessity for action like this highlights a major problem in today's society: our inability to disconnect from technology.

But while Brian's idea deals with the obsession in a social context, measures also need to be taken at home. Some people drop their smartphones into a box the moment they arrive home, which gives them the chance to interact with the people they live with. The fact that the phone cannot be heard - it is on silent - nor seen - the flashing lights are hidden by the box - means that they are no longer tempted to use it.

A less drastic solution is to ban electronic devices at certain times of day when the whole family is likely to be together, for example at meal times. This can be hard for everyone, from teenagers desperate to text friends to parents unable to switch off from work. On a normal day, however, dinner takes less than an hour, and the benefits of exchanging opinions and anecdotes with the rest of the family certainly makes up for the time spent offline.

Taking a break from technology is one thing, but knowing when to turn off a device is another. Time seems to stand still in the virtual world, and before you know it, you find that it is three o'clock in the morning. This is where a digital curfew comes in handy, a set time when all devices must be put away. Evenings without technology are usually nice and peaceful and make a more agreeable end to the day. And then it's time for bed. One of the best ways of ensuring you can sleep at night is to ban electronic devices altogether from the bedroom. Lying next to a machine bursting with information is far from relaxing, and the sounds it emits during the night can easily wake you up. With technology out of the room, a line has been drawn between daytime and sleep time, which enables us to switch off ourselves and drift off to sleep.

The word “highlights” in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to .

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

DEPENDENCE ON TECHNOLOGY: TIME FOR CHANGE!

[I] Los Angeles dancer, Brian Perez, was eating out with his friends one evening when suddenly everyone went quiet. [II] To his horror, he saw that the reason for this was that people were checking their phones. [III] What if they all put their gadgets in a pile in the middle of the table until they had finished the meal? [IV] If anyone picked up their phone, that person would have to pay the whole bill. And so, it is said, the game of 'phone stacking' was born.

The necessity for action like this highlights a major problem in today's society: our inability to disconnect from technology.

But while Brian's idea deals with the obsession in a social context, measures also need to be taken at home. Some people drop their smartphones into a box the moment they arrive home, which gives them the chance to interact with the people they live with. The fact that the phone cannot be heard - it is on silent - nor seen - the flashing lights are hidden by the box - means that they are no longer tempted to use it.

A less drastic solution is to ban electronic devices at certain times of day when the whole family is likely to be together, for example at meal times. This can be hard for everyone, from teenagers desperate to text friends to parents unable to switch off from work. On a normal day, however, dinner takes less than an hour, and the benefits of exchanging opinions and anecdotes with the rest of the family certainly makes up for the time spent offline.

Taking a break from technology is one thing, but knowing when to turn off a device is another. Time seems to stand still in the virtual world, and before you know it, you find that it is three o'clock in the morning. This is where a digital curfew comes in handy, a set time when all devices must be put away. Evenings without technology are usually nice and peaceful and make a more agreeable end to the day. And then it's time for bed. One of the best ways of ensuring you can sleep at night is to ban electronic devices altogether from the bedroom. Lying next to a machine bursting with information is far from relaxing, and the sounds it emits during the night can easily wake you up. With technology out of the room, a line has been drawn between daytime and sleep time, which enables us to switch off ourselves and drift off to sleep.

Which of the following best summarises the passage?

Read thefollowing passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that bestfits each of the numbered blanksfrom 18 to 22. 

 In today’s digital world, (18) ______ . There are many tools, which have been created to protect people’s data from online threats. One of the most popular tools is encryption, (19) ______. When encryption is used, even if someone tries to steal the information, they cannot read it without the correct key.

Another important security tool is called multi-factor authentication (MFA). In this process, more than one way of verifying identity is needed to log in. For example, (20) ______. This makes it harder for hackers to access accounts. Biometric technology, (21) ______, is also used to keep information secure. This technology relies on personal features that are unique and hard to copy

A virtual private network (VPN) is another tool that is commonly used. When a VPN is turned on, a person’s online activity is hidden, and their data is kept private. With these technologies, people are given better control over their security, (22) ______.  

Read the following passage about smart energy and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

SMART ENERGY

The upcoming decades will bring significant changes in energy supply and consumption. As some major oil-producing countries have already reached 'peak oil' and concerns about global warming rise, many nations are prioritizing the transition to a low-carbon economy, which will transform electricity supply and usage. [I] Firstly, there will be an increase in overall demand, as consumers switch from oil and gas to electricity to power their homes and vehicles. [II] Secondly, there will be an increase in power generation, not only in terms of how much is generated, but also how it is generated, as there is growing electricity generation from renewable sources. [III] To meet these challenges, countries are investing in Smart Grid technology. [IV] This system aims to provide the electricity industry with a better understanding of power generation and demand, and to use this information to create a more efficient power network.

Smart meters can be integrated with the internet or telephone networks. This connectivity enables customers to control their appliances from a distance. For instance, individuals can turn devices on or off remotely, providing added convenience. Overall, the system offers significant benefits in managing energy usage. By analyzing real-time data, it allows for better decision-making. This technology not only improves efficiency but also supports cost savings. Ultimately, the integration of smart technology will enhance user experience and system management.

The coming decades will bring significant shifts in energy supply and usage. A problem is the fact that many renewable power generation sources are located in remote areas, such as windy uplands and coastal regions, where there is currently a lack of electrical infrastructure. New infrastructures therefore must be built. Thankfully, with improved smart technology, this can be done more efficiently by reducing the reinforcement or construction costs.

Although Smart Technology is still in its infancy, pilot schemes to promote and test it are already underway. Consumers are currently testing the new smart meters which can be used in their homes to manage electricity use. There are also a number of demonstrations being planned to show how the smart technology could practically work, and trials are in place to test the new electrical infrastructure. It is here where Smart Technology is likely to be promoted first, utilising a range of sustainable power sources, transport solutions and an infrastructure for charging electrically powered vehicles. The infrastructure is already changing fast.

Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?