Energy for future centuries Will fusion be an inexhaustible, safe and clean energy source?

The current power consumption in different parts of the world and an estima te of the future energy needs of the world are given. The present energy su pplies and prospects, the possible consequences of a continued massive foss il fuel consumption, and the potential of non-fossil candidates for long-te rm energy production are outlined. An introduction to possible fusion proce sses in future fusion reactors is given. The inexhaustibility, safety, envi ronmental and economic aspects of magnetic fusion energy are discussed.