Wendell Cox is principal of Demographia, a St. Louis area based public policy firm specializing in demographics, urban policy and transportation.
Mr. Cox recently surveyed the most authoritative studies on energy demand and assessed various energy trends. He maintains that despite recent dips energy demand will continue to rise and we’ll need all the energy we can get to meet it in the years to come.
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Overview
As the global race for energy becomes more competitive, we need to broaden our understanding of the factors behind rising energy demand.
Americans rely on plentiful supplies of energy to fuel our prosperity and high standard of living. The good news is that America has made tremendous strides in energy efficiency and conservation. However, energy efficiency alone will not solve the energy challenges we face. Economic, cultural and social trends show that we need an increasing amount of energy – including oil and natural gas – in the decades ahead. Moreover, the strengthening economies of China, India and other developing nations are underpinning consumer trends similar to those in the United States, as those countries strive to achieve our living standards.
Population and economic growth, in concert with demographic and behavioral trends, lead to one conclusion – the world needs more energy, not less, to meet projected demand and sustain a healthy, vibrant future. As a nation, we need to support the production of all sources of energy, especially oil and natural gas, as well as the development of technology that improves efficiency and preserves the environment. America needs a realistic, long-term solution now.
Happy Holidays, Brought to You by Energy
During the holiday season, energy consumption typically rises in the United States.
Read more about energy use during the holidays.
Media Coverage
Growing Energy Use Will Spark Creativity
San Antonio Express-News
To keep Texas and America competitive, we need a realistic, not romantic, energy policy. One that promises every time we flip a light switch, turn on the stove and heat or cool our homes, we have a reliable means to do so at an affordable cost to everyone.
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Energy Need Rises
The Washington Times
As the global race for energy becomes more competitive, the good news is that America has made tremendous strides in energy efficiency.
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Energy Opportunity, Not Crisis
The State
The Energy Information Administration, part of the Department of Energy, recently reported that it expects the world’s energy consumption to grow by 50 percent between 2005 and 2030.
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Need for Drilling Pushed
American Press
Americans have a stark choice over the next 22 years: increase oil, gas and coal production or accept a lower standard of living, said Wendell Cox, a consultant to the American Petroleum Institute.
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Wendell Cox Discusses Trends in Energy Demand
Midlands Biz News
There is just too much growth nationally and internationally for us to think that we can conserve our way out of this issue. It's one critical side of the equation, and the government will continue to play a key role by legislating stricter standards on miles per gallon (MPG) for automobiles and better efficiency requirements for new appliances.
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