Energy - Genie or Genius?

There is no one history of the subject of 'energy', rather there are various histories. Many see the question of energy as neither more nor less than the key to modern world history, while others insist on the fact that 'energy' is an extremely abstract concept totally unsuited to being turned into a historical driving force or being granted heroic connotations. History can be written from either point of view, but in either case it is a dramatic story. Let us consider the various scenarios.

First of all, there is the grand story of the success of energy production which has increased rapidly since the early period of industrialisation; a fascinating account full of superlatives, to such an extent that it might be believed that we are touching the nerve of most recent history. On closer analysis it is possible to identify three separate impetuses in this growth curve, three qualitative leaps each ushering in a new era.

These three periods can be characterised by steam power, electricity and oil. At first glance this description may appear to be technically limited; but innovations in energy technology go hand in hand with a change in culture and mentality.