Oil Shock Risk, Data Centre Demand & Resource Pressure
Clean energy is scaling fast, power prices are shifting, and supply chains are back in focus. From record wind and solar additions to cheaper electricity in high-renewable systems, alongside growing dependence on global trade and critical materials, these stories highlight how energy, economics, and resources are increasingly connected.
🛢️ China’s Cheap Oil Model Faces Disruption
China imports around 11.3 million barrels of oil per day, making it the world’s largest importer. But two key sources of discounted oil—Iran and Venezuela—are now constrained, removing a major cost advantage. With supply tightening and tankers disrupted around the Strait of Hormuz, China may need to replace not just volume, but cheap supply, putting pressure on its energy system.
🖥️ UK Data Centres Could Drive Higher Emissions
New analysis suggests emissions from UK data centres could be far higher than official estimates, especially if new demand is met with gas-fired power. With dozens of facilities planned to support AI growth, electricity demand is set to surge—raising concerns that data centre expansion could conflict with climate targets if low-carbon supply doesn’t keep pace.
⚡ China’s Energy Buildout Will Drive Copper Demand
China’s next Five-Year Plan includes massive renewable expansion, with up to 287 GW of solar and 120 GW of wind added annually. These technologies require significantly more copper—3 to 8 times more per MW than fossil fuels—making the energy transition a major driver of global copper demand, already accounting for roughly 60% of growth.
☀️ Some U.S. States Now Generate More Clean Power Than They Use
In 2025, two U.S. states generated over 100% of their electricity demand using wind, water, and solar. Across the country, 14 states met between 50% and 124% of demand with these sources. The national average reached 25.7%, showing how rapidly clean electricity is scaling in parts of the grid.
🌋 Geothermal Power Gains Attention as Demand Rises
Geothermal energy is drawing renewed interest as electricity demand grows. The United States remains the largest producer with around 3.7 GW of capacity, followed by Indonesia and Philippines. These countries benefit from volcanic geology, enabling reliable 24/7 clean power, an increasingly valuable asset as grids expand.