The foundations of the global energy system are shifting, with a resurgence in oil and gas production in some countries, a retreat from nuclear power signalled in some others and signs of increasing policy focus on energy efficiency. Against this backdrop, the World Energy Outlook 2012 brings together the latest data and policy developments to present up to date, authoritative projections of energy trends through to 2035 and insights into what they mean for energy security, environmental sustainability and economic development. Oil, coal, natural gas, renewables and nuclear power are all covered, together with an update on climate change issues. 

The World Energy Outlook 2012 also focuses on topical issues, such as the benefits that could be achieved if known best technologies and practices to improve energy efficiency were systematically adopted. It highlights the dependence of energy on water, including the particular vulnerabilities faced by the energy sector in a more water-constrained future. It investigates how the surge in unconventional oil and gas production in the United States is set to have implications well beyond North America. It includes a detailed country focus on Iraq, examining both its importance in satisfying the country's own needs and its crucial role in meeting global oil and gas demand. And it quantifies the cost of subsidies to fossil fuels and renewables, which are both coming under closer scrutiny in this age of austerity.

Speaker: Fatih Birol, Chief Economist, International Energy Agency