As a vital lifeline in the economy , electricity is indispensable for countries to maintain social stability, promote digital transformation, and achieve sustainable growth. However, rapidly increasing demand poses a major challenge in ensuring supply.
According to a report recently published by Rystad Energy, global electricity demand could increase by approximately 30% in the next 10 years. Notably, the challenge lies not only in meeting the basic consumption needs but also in operating key industries that cannot thrive without robust and sustainable energy infrastructure. If the supply and price bottlenecks are not resolved, the electricity shortage could become a devastating blow to economies.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) stated that record high temperatures, increased industrial demand, electrification, and the development of AI and data centers are the leading causes of the surge in electricity demand. In 2024, total global electricity consumption is expected to nearly double the average annual consumption of the previous decade. AI is considered a "game changer" in this context.
Data center systems, which form the backbone of AI applications, consume enormous amounts of electricity, often exceeding the power grid's production and transmission capacity in many countries.
IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol stated that AI has become a factor that governments must consider in ensuring national energy security. Currently, data centers consume about 1.5% of the total global electricity, and this figure could continue to increase exponentially.
Faced with a "thirst" for electricity, many countries are racing to find solutions to ensure supply. Among these, developing renewable energy is considered a crucial strategy. With vast and sustainable reserves, renewable energy sources not only help solve the energy security problem but also significantly contribute to slowing down global warming – one of the causes of rising electricity consumption. The IEA forecasts that renewable energy could account for approximately 45% of global electricity production by 2030.
Furthermore, nuclear energy is also part of the solution. The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, argues that nuclear energy plays a crucial role in meeting the rapidly increasing electricity demand in the era of explosive growth in AI, data centers, and digital transformation. With its stability, low carbon emissions, and continuous production capabilities, nuclear energy is seen as the perfect "piece" to fill the gap in the current energy landscape.
Recognizing this potential, many countries are simultaneously accelerating the development of nuclear power, especially as production technology becomes increasingly advanced and safe. Identifying nuclear energy as its primary energy source, South Korea is focusing on developing next-generation nuclear reactors. In 2024, nuclear power is expected to account for the largest share of South Korea's electricity production for the first time.
The U.S. Department of Energy has launched a nuclear reactor pilot program, marking a significant step in President Donald Trump's vision of securing electricity supply to position the U.S. as a leader in the global AI race. Along with the U.S. and South Korea, many other countries are also actively developing this promising energy source. Statistics show that more than 20 countries aim to triple their nuclear power capacity by 2050, and dozens more are developing civilian nuclear power programs with the support of the IAEA.
The global economy is undergoing a dramatic transformation, and securing electricity supply is a critical requirement for countries to maintain the lifeblood of their economies and develop modern industries.
Updated 5/11/2025
Source: https://laichau.gov.vn/tin-tuc-su-kien/chuyen-de/tin-trong-nuoc/huyet-mach-cua-nen-kinh-te.html
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