The energy situation after the referendum

The author deals with electrical power supply in the 1980's. There is first the addition to it from the commissioning of four new nuclear power stations which are now nearing completion. Another two will come into operation in 1985/86. All six will add about 35 TWh/year to the potential power supply. There have been and always will be long-range forecasts of demand for and supply of power with which political events, such as the 1973 oil crisis, interfere. The aim of the power generating industry must be to build sufficient additional capacity to satisfy any foreseeable demand for the next 5 to 10 years. Electricity consumption in 1985 and 1990 could be respectively 121 and 138 TWh. The present fuel price of 3,4 oere/kWh for nuclear energy is very favourable in comparison with oil for oil-fired power stations (about 20 oere/kWh). Both will increase with the rate of inflation but, in addition, there is the risk of further rises in the price of oil. (R.S.)