Global Energy Forecasts: Robust Growth in Developing Countries, Fueled by Coal
Global energy demand will grow by 39% by 2030, driven almost entirely by the increased use of energy in all forms in China, India, the Middle East and other areas of the developing world, according the latest Energy Outlook, released on Jan. 18 by the London-based oil giant BP. In the developed world, efficiency and reduced demand will result in just a 4% increase in the use of electricity, oil and natural gas by 2030. While renewables and biofuels are expected to become a larger portion of the market, 8% by 2030, fossil fuels will be used to meet 81% of global energy demand, according to BP’s comprehensive analysis.
The same message was echoed at a United States Energy Association's “State of the Industry” event, held on Jan. 18 in Washington, D.C. Representatives of the coal and nuclear industries said growth is stagnant or very slow in the U.S., but they are positioning themselves to serve global demand.