OPEC Predicts Rapid Renewable Energy Growth
The latest edition of the OPEC World Oil Outlook predicts oil will remain the world’s largest source of energy over the next two decades, despite the increasing importance of renewables. However, the Organization says that the rate of growth for oil and gas will not be as robust as in previous decades while Renewables will see rapid growth.
Released in an exclusive briefing to senior industry executives at the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC), the latest edition of the World Oil Outlook forecasts that oil will supply just over 27% p of worldwide energy needs in 2040, while natural gas will see its share at slightly more than 25.
The scenario would see demand grow from 95.4 million barrels per day, in 2016, to reach 111.1 million barrels per day by 2040, with the global economy growing by an average of 3.5% per year during that time.
However, while prospects for the industry are strong, the World Oil Outlook predicts demand for oil will grow more slowly than the overall demand for energy. Renewables will see the fastest rate of annual growth, at 6.8 percent per annum, although their overall share of the energy mix is only expected to reach 5.4% by 2040 due to their lower starting base.
“Alongside an ever-expanding global population and the critical importance of reducing energy poverty, these growth rates mean energy demand is expected to increase by close to 100 million barrels of oil equivalent a day between 2015 and 2040,” Barkindo said.
“OPEC is greatly supportive of the ongoing development of renewables and many of our member countries have vast solar and wind resources, with significant investments being made in these areas.”
First published in 2007, the World Oil Outlook is one of OPEC’s flagship publications. It provides an in-depth review and analysis of the global oil industry, offering a thorough assessment of various trends and challenges in the medium and long-term development of the industry. This year marks the 11th edition of OPEC’s World Oil Outlook.