Generators and alternators: Overview
The spinning magnets inside almost every power station
What this tile covers Machines that turn rotation into electricity in almost every power plant. Share of use 19% share of final energy use (2025)Share of world total final energy consumption (about 435 EJ, calculated: motor systems 13,462 TWh are 53% of electricity, so about 25,400 TWh or 91 EJ, and electricity is about 21% of final energy) that passes through this device or is used by this sector, latest year available. Electricity-based devices use electricity's 21% share of final energy (IEA WEO 2025). Overlaps between devices and sectors are allowed and noted. Every power source except solar PV (and fuel cells) uses a rotating generator. Solar was 2,778 TWh, about 8.8% of world electricity in 2025 (Ember; share calculated from renewables 10,730 TWh = 33.8%); 91.2% of electricity's 21% share of final energy is about 19.2% (calculated). Overlaps the turbine and engine tiles. Source: Global Electricity Review 2026, Ember.
Key facts
| Chain | Mechanical → magnetic → electrical |
Included from the reference tables
- Generators and alternators
- Dynamos
- Electromagnetic induction
Linked to the material world
Cu CopperREE Rare earthsSt SteelAlso in Conversion devices
ST Steam turbines and thermal power plantsCCGT Gas turbines and combined cycleICE Internal combustion engines and gensetsMot Electric motors and drivesPE Transformers and power electronicsFC Fuel cellsElz ElectrolysersHP Heat pumps, air conditioning and refrigerationEH Electric heatingLED Lighting and displaysBlr Boilers, furnaces and stovesExplore paths from here
More on this tile in the tabs above: science and limits, value chain, unit economics, engineering methods, equipment and suppliers.