Country/
Region

Highlights

Capacity, 1997

Net Generation, 1997

Main Fuels Used for Generation, 1997*

Total (GW)

Hydro (%)

Total (Billion KWh)

Hydro (%)

Canada/
USA

The United States is undergoing major changes in its electric power sector, particularly increased retail competition and direct access by consumers to service providers.

893

18%

4,080

17%

Coal, nuclear, hydro, gas

Mexico

Mexico is facing potential electricity shortfalls as demand grows faster than supply, and is now considering major changes, including an increased role for the private sector.

38

27%

164

16%

Oil, hydro, gas, coal

Central and South America

As in Mexico, many countries in this region are facing rapidly growing power demand, and are looking to shift from state to private control of their power sectors.  Increased investment also is being sought to expand and modernize power generating and transmission facilities throughout the region.

152

67%

671

75%

Hydro, gas, oil

Total Americas

1,083

25%

4,915

28%

Coal, hydro, nuclear, gas