The “Demand Decade” refers to the projected 2026–2035 period in which global energy demand is expected to grow at an unprecedented pace, driven by AI growth, data center expansion, cloud computing, electrification, and industrial development across the Global South. Forecasts indicate that electricity demand from data centers could double by 2030, with AI related energy use increasing severalfold over the same period. This surge underscores the need for an all of the above energy strategy, where oil, gas, and other sources play complementary roles in ensuring global economic growth, security, and reliability.
In this environment, exploration is strategically essential, enabling secure supply, supporting diversification, and strengthening global economic resilience. The exploration sector is therefore central to navigating and powering the Demand Decade.