The internet and other modern communication networks are vital to the global economy, but they are also significant consumers of electricity and carbon producers – from the construction to the ongoing consumption (data centre construction is now limited by the lack of available power to keep them running). At the same time, they offer a route to reduce carbon production from transport and buildings as people can work from home or reduce their business travel. - Description added by: David Lockie

Electricity is fundamental to modern societies. It is the backbone to nearly all other technologies and we use it daily in lighting, appliances, communications and healthcare. Currently most electricity is generated in centralised, large-scale power stations fuelled by fossil fuels, uranium (nuclear power) or through renewable or alternative energy sources such as wind or hydro-electric power. It is becoming increasingly clear that we need to secure long-term, cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel power stations to cover both current demand, and future growth. There is an urgent need for open debate and consensus on the future of electricity generation as decisions are being made now that will still need to be in place in thirty years time, when the world might look radically different from how it does now. - Description added by: David Lockie