Strategic planning in the energy sector of Hungary

Abstract

Strategic planning is important part of the energy sector due to its high capital intensity and the long lifetime of the energy systems and equipment. Therefore, special attention should be paid to decision making and expected consequences, since they may preserve the future for decisive time. There are several options available for decision support with different methodologies, some of them attempt to determine the expected events more precisely for clearer vision and more unequivocal decisions. However, the future will never be known exactly, the uncertainty cannot be completely eliminated. Another way is to deal with the uncertainty at a manageable level. This paper evaluates the possible tools of futures studies which can be applied specifically in the energy sector. Through the examples of Hungary and international policies, the most commonly practiced methods are discussed critically and suggestions are made based on the outcomes.