the outlook for energy: a view to 2030

The world's economy literally runs on energy. To support continued economic progress for the world's growing population, more energy will be needed. Even with significant improvements in energy efficiency, the world's total energy demand is expected to be approximately 40 percent higher by 2030 than it was in 2005. The vast majority of this demand increase will take place in developing countries, where economies are growing most rapidly and modern energy supplies are still a precious commodity for millions of people. Meeting higher energy requirements poses many challenges, including boosting efficiency, developing new supplies and managing environmental risks.

This outlook is developed annually via an ongoing assessment. The results assist business planning, and are shared publicly to help build understanding of the world's energy needs and challenges.

This year focuses on energy demand to the year 2030, with particular emphasis on the increasing needs of the power generation and transportation sectors. It also examines how rising demand will be met from the various energy sources available, including fossil fuels, nuclear power and renewable energies. It also provides insight to the challenge of meeting growing energy needs while significantly mitigating global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.