Fossil Fuel Dependence, AI Power & Clean Energy Growth
From fossil fuel dependence and rising oil trade to electric trucks, massive batteries and the growing challenge of building AI infrastructure, the energy system is changing fast. These developments show how clean technology is expanding while energy security and local opposition become increasingly important.
🌍 Three Quarters of the World Depends on Fossil Imports
Around three quarters of the global population live in countries that import fossil fuels, leaving billions exposed to volatile prices, geopolitical tensions and potential supply disruptions. The shift to domestic clean energy can reduce that vulnerability.
🏗️ AI Data Centres Face a New Bottleneck: Local Opposition
The rapid expansion of AI infrastructure is increasingly running into resistance from local communities. In Q1 2026, 26 US data centre projects were blocked, while 166 faced opposition and another 49 were delayed, putting around $130 billion of projects at risk.
🚛 Electric Trucks Reach 45% of China’s Market
Electric trucks accounted for around 45% of truck sales in China in June 2026, up from roughly 25% a year earlier. If that rate continues, around 430,000 electric heavy trucks could hit Chinese roads over the next 12 months.
🔋 Europe’s Battery Storage Boom
Europe is rapidly expanding battery storage as renewable generation grows. By storing electricity when renewable output is high and releasing it when demand rises, batteries can help balance the grid and make better use of clean power.
🛢️ Mapping America’s Biggest Oil Buyers
The US exported 10.7 million barrels of oil and petroleum products per day in 2025, with the Netherlands and Mexico the two biggest destinations. The top five markets accounted for around 42% of exports, highlighting the diversity of America’s global oil trade.