Electrical engineering between energy and information

Abstract

The present discussion in industrial countries about the future of electrical engineering revolves almost exclusively around communication and information, as a consequence of the advances of microelectronics into molecular dimensions. In contrast, the field of energy is said to be matured, offering little future prospects. This is a one-sided opinion, considering the shortage of energy in many regions of the world and the unsolved problems of providing an equitable supply to growing populations. The issue is examined with the aim of achieving a more balanced discussion by looking at the available resources and the future role of the electrical energy grid as a clearing facility, as well as the potential of power electronics for efficient and flexible generation.