抄録
The conversion of primary energy from natural sources and the subsequent utilisation of secondary forms of energy are basically related to the development of our society with its continuous change of requirements which are predominantly due to an increase in population and prosperity as well as the broadening of the needs in our modern life. Consequently the consumption of primary energy resources rose drastically during the last 5 decades. However, the increasing awareness of environment pollution from the use of e.g. fossil fuels, the limitation of the availability of such sources as well as market considerations and costs forces governments to re-orientate their energy policy in order to ensure a sustainable supply for the future of their societies. The paper will start with an overview of the energy market development in general and by comparing certain key areas in relation to their boundary conditions. In particular, the situation in Europe will be discussed and the consequences for political actions and technological needs for the future energy supply will be highlighted.
