CONTEXT
The world's energy consumption, which is directly related to economic growth and development, is rising at a brisk pace and by 2030, it is expected to increase by 50%. At the same time, fossil fuels are becoming scarcer and major tensions are bearing down on the hydrocarbons market. In addition to this pressure, we must take into consideration new restrictions related to environmental concerns: in the face of global warming, public authorities, energy specialists and citizens must all work together to preserve our planet. The challenge during this century will be to meet growing demands for energy while limiting its impact on our quality of life. With this in mind, the Suez Group, which operates in the electricity, gas and services sectors, has spent the last few years building the future of energy and offering a sustainable response to rapidly expanding needs.
CHALLENGES
The Suez group, as one of the key leaders in the energy market, must control energy prices and make them accessible. To balance and compensate for changes in the prices of the various energy resources, Suez has opted for a portfolio strategy based on diversified production. At the same time, the group must guarantee the provisioning of energy under all circumstances by securing its supply streams and building new production capacity in areas where demand is rising sharply. It must coordinate these efforts while controlling their impact on the environment, particularly greenhouse gas emissions. To meet these challenges, Suez currently possesses one of the most balanced energy assortments on the market, but also one of the most environmentally friendly ones. Therefore Suez can make a lasting promise to its customers to bring them safe, competitive and environmentally friendly energy at all times.
OUTLOOK
Suez's significant contributions to innovation enable the group to meet the challenges of the energy market. Combining, among other things, a secure supply, enhanced energy independence and environmental protection, the group's energy portfolio allows it to offer its customers a sustainable solution. Thus, at European level, it supports the European Commission's goals and responds point by point to the guidelines of the European Directive on Energy. To continue to satisfy demand, Suez is increasing its production capacities while incorporating the most environmentally sound and effective new technologies. Suez plans to have a capacity of 75,000 MW in 2012, of which 40,000 MW will be in Europe; that figure will grow to 100,000 MW in 2012 within the framework of the merger with GDF. The group will retain all the fuel sources currently in its possession in similar proportions with one exception: the weight of renewable energies will continue to grow in the coming years.