Investing in power generation

Abstract

In light of considerable political and market risk emanating from energy market liberalization, global warming, and rapid technological change, adequate investment in power generation capacity is of paramount importance for ensuring the security of electricity supply and a smooth transition to a more decentralized, energy-efficient and renewable energy system. Consequently, investors have to use more sophisticated approaches to determine optimal investment levels and technology choices than in regulated markets. In this chapter, we provide a discussion of relevant topics and issues in this context and some of the key literature. We also discuss the expected paradigm shift from centralized to more decentralized electricity generation, and the possible (re-)emergence of direct current grids, in light of the history of electrical engineering. Both phenomena, once manifested, would radically reshape the electricity system, with potentially severe economic consequences for existing real assets and new challenges for investment decision-makers, technical system operators, policy-makers, and regulatory bodies alike. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.