Directions of changes in the structure of electricity production in the world

Abstract

The article aims to analyze the direction of changes in the world's electricity production structure. The energy balance structure is an important element in the economic development of many countries. The diversity of sources used in different countries or continents to produce electricity affects the diversity of the energy balance structure. So far, raw materials are of strategic importance for the energy security of each country and the competitiveness of their economies. Nevertheless, due to their global importance and the introduced directives related mainly to the integration of energy markets and environmental protection, as well as the pace of reduction (shrinking) of the level of their resources, there is a diversification of energy sources resulting from the shift from fossil sources to renewable energy sources. In line with current trends, energy demand (energy consumption, including electricity) is constantly growing, which increases demand for individual energy sources, including solid fuels. The increasing trend in energy demand increases the importance of an appropriate energy balance and, consequently, the energy security of individual countries around the world. The authors of the publication asked the following research question: what may be the future trend in the development of individual energy sources? The authors' attempt to answer was based on the analysis of available data on the amount of electricity produced in the world and the amount of its consumption (consumption). The presented analysis is based on individual regions of the world: North America, S. & Cent. America, Europe, CIS, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.