Preface

Ambitious environmental targets will modify the shape of the electricity sector in the twenty-first century. ‘Smart’ technologies and demand-side management will be some of the key features of the future of the electricity system in a low-carbon world. Meanwhile, the social and behavioural dimensions will complement and interact with new technologies and policies. Moreover, electricity demand will increasingly be tied up with the demand for heat and transport. The Future of Electricity Demand explores the features of the future electricity demand in light of the challenges posed by climate change. Written by a team of leading academics and industry experts, the book investigates the economics, technology, social aspects, and policies and regulations which seem likely to characterize energy demand in a low-carbon world. The book begins by looking at the economics and the modelling of energy demand. Next, it examines the technological solutions for achieving active demand, such as smart meters, smart appliances and electric vehicles. It then turns to the social dimensions of energy, and finally to policy and regulatory instruments. It thus provides a comprehensive and analytical perspective on the future of electricity demand.