Sechin predicted a shortage of generating capacities in the world

The world is entering a phase of structural growth in electricity consumption, and there may be a shortage of generating capacity in the coming years. This opinion was expressed by Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the Development Strategy of the Fuel and Energy Complex and Environmental Safety, at the Energy Panel of the XXIX St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

"According to forecasts, in the next five years, global demand for data center capacity may almost triple to 220 gigawatts, more than 70% of this volume will be for tasks related to artificial intelligence. At the same time, the new tariff will be distributed to all consumers," Sechin said.

He recalled that over the past two hundred years, the global economy has grown due to the consumption of fossil energy resources (coal, oil, gas). At the same time, in the 21st century, the energy system is entering a new phase – a "from molecules to electrons" model is being formed, the key element of which is data centers.

"Today, the world is entering a phase of structural growth in electricity consumption. According to the International Energy Agency's forecast, global electricity demand will increase by almost 40% by 2035. Such a pace requires balanced development of the energy system based on stable and economically efficient generation," Sechin stressed.

He agreed with the opinion that the high pace of development of new technologies in the near future will lead to a shortage of generating capacities. In particular, Elon Musk expects a shortage of electricity in about a year, and a shortage of semiconductors within three to four years.

"Data centers around the world already consume about 500 terawatt-hours per year, which, for example, exceeds the total electricity consumption of France. According to the forecast of the International Energy Agency, by 2035 this figure may grow by two and a half times – up to 1,200 terawatt-hours, which is comparable to the current level of consumption in Russia," Sechin added.