Electricity in the global energy scene

Abstract

Owing to the many advantages and versatility of electricity, its share in the global demand for energy in final use is increasing. In 1990, global electricity generation amounted to 11 700 TWH and fuels for electricity production consumed 36% of the total global primary energy needs; which is more than twice their share in the 1950s. More than half of the electricity consumption occurs in OECD countries, however prospects for future demand growth are in developing countries. With increasing populations, higher economic growth, and the present modest use of electricity and energy, these countries are likely to consume a larger share of the electricity market in the future. Their demand growth rate will most likely be moderated by an acute shortage of capital. Future electricity generation technologies will aim towards improving efficiency, clean emissions, low capital cost and short lead times. Therefore, gas turbines and combined cycle plants will gradually assume a larger share of the power generating equipment market. For many decades to come, coal, because of its abundance and cheapness, will remain the world's major fuel for electricity generation. Natural gas, owing to its cleanliness, will be more in demand. However, the shares of hydro- and nuclear fuel, owing to their highly capital intensive nature and other considerations, are not likely to increase.