Solar Thermal Power Systems Point-Focusing Thermal and Electric Applications Project: Energy Price and Consumption Forecast and Its Application to Solar Energy

摘要

Technology comparisons (and subsequent policy recommendations) appearing in most energy studies depend strongly on implicit assumptions regarding pricing trends and future resource availability. As energy prices and input mixes change, corresponding effects are seen in the projected proportion of total demand filled by new energy technologies, as well as the sectors of the economy exhibiting the greatest potential for usage of new energy technologies. This report not only provides a comprehensive energy data base, but also attempts to initiate the reader to the energy economics picture in the United States via an overview of an energy consumption and price forecast prepared by Data Resources, Incorporated (DI). The report also illustrates, through an application to solar energy, how energy forecasts can be utilized and expanded (beyond mere numbers) to provide a reference base for policy discussions.