The great gas investment divide
Gas’ part in the transition to a climate-neutral energy system is more controversial than for any other major source of primary energy
There is a developing consensus in the debate on how humankind should approach decarbonising energy supplies to avert dangerous climate change about the appropriate roles for most major primary energy sources. For example, a phase-out of coal—as the most carbon-intensive of fuels—garners widespread agreement, and the list of countries that have committed to this goal grows by the month. Conversely, renewables such as wind and solar power are viewed increasingly positively because they emit no greenhouse gases (GHGs) during operation and their costs continue to fall. Gas stands out as an exception to this general rule, dividing experts, making life uncomfortable for investors, and threatening
Also in this section
9 January 2026
OPEC+ remains on track as output falls, with only Gabon failing to hit its output targets in December, although Kazakhstan’s compliance was involuntary
9 January 2026
The Latin American producer’s crude prospects rely on a multi-pronged approach where even the relatively easy wins will take considerable time, effort and cost
9 January 2026
While many forecasters are reasserting the importance of oil and gas, petrostates should be under no illusion things are changing, and faster than they might think
8 January 2026
Indonesia and Malaysia are at the dawn of breathtaking digital capabilities. Their energy infrastructure must keep up with their ambitions
