Natural Resources & Energy

Global demand for energy continues to rise, even in Asia and other developing countries where population growth and industrialization are driving this need. Against the backdrop of soaring prices for oil and other energy sources and increasing environmental concerns, the stable supply of energy is becoming a serious issue for the international community.

One further trend is the continued liberalization of the electric power segment around the world. This has resulted in the introduction of Public-Private Partnerships and a shift to private sector-led electric power supply initiatives as an increasing number of developing countries reform the electric power sector. At the same time, renewable energies are gaining attention on account of their potential to prevent global warming. If operated at a particular scale, solar, wind and geothermal power generation can lead to a reduction in greenhouse gases. It is hoped that a more diverse array of energy sources will be put to use on a wider scale in order to ensure stable supplies of electric power going forward.