Project SyndicateProject Syndicate

Helping middle-income energy exporters kick the fossil-fuel habit

By Carlos Lopes

27 Jan 2023 · 3 min read

Editor's Note

"Middle-income" energy exporting countries can't easily transition to renewables, which can be problematic when fossil-fuels aren't profitable. This article looks at how that situation can be avoided.

CAPE TOWN – The ongoing volatility in oil and gas markets has come as a shock to many people across the developed world. But its impact on developing countries that rely on producing fossil fuels has been far worse.

Over time, as the world increasingly shifts to cheaper and cleaner energy sources, fossil fuels will likely become less profitable, forcing energy-exporting countries to find other sources of income. What would that mean for “middle-income” developing countries which together account for 48% and 52% of global oil and gas output, respectively?

Sign in to informed

  • Curated articles from premium publishers, ad-free
  • Concise Daily Briefs with quick-read summaries
  • Read, listen, save for later, or enjoy offline
  • Enjoy personalized content
Or

By continuing, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.