The Emerging Global Energy Landscape

Abstract

The article examines the impact of key macroeconomic, technological, demographic, and political factors on shaping the future global energy landscape. Based on a systems analysis of data from the IEA, World Bank, OECD, and leading think tanks, it is shown that by 2050 the combined population growth of Africa and the Asia–Pacific region by 1.4 billion and accelerated urbanization will account for up to 60% of the global increase in electricity consumption. The technological revolution, driven by AI and data centers, will raise their annual electricity demand beyond 1,000 TWh by 2030, comparable to Japan’s current level. The study demonstrates that the “green” transition faces constraints: achieving net zero by 2050 would require about USD 180 trillion in investments, while the power density of renewables remains far lower than that of conventional sources. Analysis of the nuclear sector reveals a 50% investment increase over the past five years, with China and Russia leading in new reactor construction and closed fuel cycle technologies. Coal retains around 25% of the global energy mix, with its consumption peak postponed, underlining the importance of balancing traditional and alternative sources. Strategic approaches of China, India, the US, and Russia to energy security are reviewed, including grid modernization, battery technology development, synthetic fuels, and coal power expansion. The paper concludes that an effective future global energy model requires integration of high-density traditional and low-carbon energy sources, enhancement of inter-fuel competition, and alignment of national strategies with global priorities.