An Analysis of the Techno-Economic Dynamics of Energy Infrastructure Investment

Abstract

This paper analyzes, from a techno-economic perspective, the interaction between societal energy consumption, technological changes, and economic decisions, and how they impact on energy infrastructure investment using a combination of empirical and exploratory research methods. It further analyzes the global investment and cost dynamics of energy infrastructures – with specific emphasis on energy supply and efficiency investment trends - using as its base the 2014 World Energy Investment Outlook report of the International Energy Agency (IEA). It highlights some key drivers of energy demand, consumption, and investment, as well as the specific impacts of energy investment within the sub-Sahara African region. It concludes by highlighting the increasing role of governments in the energy market going into the future.