Kuwait City:The world is expected to require significantly more electricity in the coming decades, but it cannot dismiss the importance of other energy sources, according to OPEC Secretary-General Haitham Al Ghais. He emphasized the necessity of integrating all forms of energy rather than focusing solely on electricity.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Ghais highlighted during a discussion with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) that despite the prevalent discourse on an "Age of Electricity," this vision has yet to be fully realized. He advocated for an "Age of all Energies" that recognizes how different energy sources complement each other.
Al Ghais identified several blind spots in the move towards electrification. He mentioned that the so-called "Age of Electricity" involves substantial infrastructure development, requiring extensive hardware installations across various sectors such as homes, offices, and transportation. This transformation is heavily dependent on petroleum-powered logistics for the production and distribution of necessary equipment.
He also noted that increased electrification would lead to a surge in demand for cables and chargers, which in turn drives the need for more petroleum-based products. The transition to electricity is closely linked to the use of plastic components, such as insulation and casings for cables and devices.
Additionally, Al Ghais acknowledged the challenges in expanding electric vehicle adoption, citing issues like the availability of critical minerals, public charging infrastructure, and market dynamics that influence both manufacturers and consumers.