Global energy demand projections and Gazprom’s strategic moves
Global energy consumption is forecast to rise across the board, with natural gas leading the way. By 2050, total gas use is expected to climb significantly, a projection echoed by Gazprom through a consensus estimate reported by TASS. The shift toward gas is framed as a faster route to emissions reductions and energy security, especially in regions where gas infrastructure is already mature.
Alongside natural gas, the mix of electricity generation sources is anticipated to evolve. Nuclear power is projected to grow modestly, by about 5 percent, while hydropower and renewable energy capacity are expected to rise by roughly 3 percent and 17 percent, respectively. This shift reflects ongoing investments in low-carbon technologies and the need to balance reliability with climate goals as demand grows worldwide.
In the transport and industrial sectors, energy demand patterns are also shifting. Oil use is expected to decline by roughly 24 percent by 2025, with coal use falling around 13 percent in the same period. These reductions point to a broader transition toward cleaner energy carriers and more efficient energy use across sectors.
Gazprom has outlined its plan to cut its carbon footprint by making strategic use of gas and upgrading infrastructure. The company aims to cut carbon dioxide emissions by about 60 million tons by 2030 by gasifying regions and expanding the use of gaseous engine fuels. This approach aligns with broader industry goals to decarbonize heat, power, and transportation applications through the cleaner burning properties of natural gas.
Alexander Ishkov, deputy head of Gazprom, emphasized that replacing the most carbon-intensive energy sources with gas could deliver rapid environmental benefits. The argument centers on gas serving as a cleaner bridge fuel during the transition to a lower-carbon energy system, while renewables scale up and energy efficiency improves across the economy.
Meanwhile, discussions between Moldovan energy authorities and Gazprom were highlighted by Moldovagaz President Vadim Ceban. He underscored the importance of constructive dialogue to address outstanding debt issues and sustain energy supply for Moldova. The broader regional context includes Moldova’s recent steps to diversify its energy imports, including the potential for liquefied natural gas from other partners to enhance reliability and pricing options.
In related developments, Moldova has signaled its intention to expand LNG procurement from the United States as part of diversifying sources. This move is part of a larger trend toward global gas trade diversification, aiming to reduce dependence on a single supplier and improve price stability, while supporting regional energy security and market resilience.