GECF Projects 20% Global Energy Demand Increase by 2055

The Gas Exporting Countries Forum projects that global energy demand will increase by 20% by 2055, rising from 641 exajoules in 2024 to 768 exajoules. This growth is driven by population and economic expansion, with natural gas and renewable energy expected to lead the increase.

Speaking at the Energy Finance Forum during African Energy Week 2026 in Cape Town, Senior Energy Forecast Analyst Abubakar Abbas stated that natural gas's share of power generation is expected to rise from 35% to 39% by 2055. Conversely, demand for natural gas in domestic use and heating is projected to decline.

To meet these future needs, the organization notes that 86% of global natural gas production by 2055 must come from fields that are not currently producing. This creates an urgent need for accelerated investment in exploration and infrastructure. Africa specifically requires an estimated $1 trillion in cumulative investment across its natural gas value chain to develop new resources and expand exports. This transition aims to reduce global reliance on carbon-intensive fuels like coal while addressing sustainability goals and energy poverty.