This book describes in an informal manner the methods used by consultants and industry planners to compile long term forecasts of global energy demand, supply and prices. A core aim is to expose the frailties of the forecasting process and describe the myriad issues that have to be addressed to compile such projections.

The book shows that long term energy forecasts are often proven to be wide of the mark; but emphasises that forecasts are still needed, notwithstanding their accuracy. A market view is inevitably required to underpin ongoing new energy investment projects. The value of forecasts is generated in understanding their construction - how you get to the number - and being able to challenge their methodologies and assumptions.