The year 2100 may sound distant, but the energy decisions made today — especially in the Gulf region — will define the world future generations inherit. A child born today could still be alive at the end of the century, possibly as a national leader, scientist, or business pioneer. The question facing policymakers now is clear: what kind of energy future will they live in?
Most global energy forecasts by major institutions look only as far ahead as 2050. But that timeline represents just a few cycles of large energy investments. Power plants, oilfields and infrastructure built today can operate for decades — even more than a century — meaning today’s decisions will influence life well into 2100.
For energy-producing regions such as the Gulf, the long-term impact of these decisions is especially significant.
Long-Term Energy Choices Matter
Energy infrastructure is built to last. Oilfields discovered more than a century ago are still producing today, while early solar technology developed decades ago laid the foundation for today’s renewable revolution.
Even more important is the long-lasting impact of carbon emissions. A large share of carbon dioxide released today will remain in the atmosphere for thousands of years, continuing to affect global temperatures and climate systems long into the future.
This makes current energy policies among the most important decisions of the modern era.
A Bigger and Hotter World
By 2100, the global population is expected to reach 10–11 billion people, increasing demand for energy, water, and food.
Scientists project that global temperatures could rise significantly by the end of the century unless major changes occur in how energy is produced and consumed. Rising temperatures could lead to:
- More intense heatwaves across the Gulf region
- Higher sea levels affecting coastal cities
- Stronger storms and extreme weather
- Pressure on water resources
- Loss of ecosystems
For the Middle East, one of the world’s hottest regions, these changes could be particularly significant.
Energy Demand Will Surge
Future societies will consume far more energy than today. Expanding access to electricity remains a global priority, while new technologies will drive additional demand.
By 2100, energy use may include:
- Artificial intelligence-driven economies
- Smart and automated cities
- Large-scale desalination plants
- Climate-controlled urban spaces
- Vertical farming systems
- Electric air transport
- Advanced manufacturing
- Commercial space activities
These technologies will require reliable and abundant power.
Renewables Will Lead the Transition
Energy experts increasingly agree that renewable sources will dominate electricity generation in the coming decades.
Solar power is expected to play a major role, particularly in sunny regions such as the Gulf. Future solar technologies could be integrated into buildings, vehicles and infrastructure.
Wind and hydropower will complement solar generation, while improved battery storage will ensure stable electricity supply during nights and seasonal variations.
Electricity networks capable of transmitting power across thousands of kilometres already exist, although political and regulatory barriers may slow the creation of global energy grids.
Nuclear and Fusion Energy
Nuclear power is expected to expand globally as countries seek reliable low-carbon electricity. New reactor technologies may provide safer and more flexible power generation.
Fusion energy — often described as the ultimate clean power source — could become commercially viable by the 2040s, potentially transforming global electricity systems.
If successful, fusion could provide abundant and clean energy for centuries.
Oil and Gas Will Still Have a Role
Despite the global shift toward cleaner energy, oil and gas will remain part of the energy mix for decades. Heavy transport such as ships and long-distance aircraft will continue to require energy-dense fuels.
Production is expected to decline gradually but remain significant into the second half of the century. The most efficient producers — particularly in the Middle East — are likely to dominate the remaining hydrocarbon market.
Future fuels may include:
- Hydrogen-based fuels
- Synthetic hydrocarbons
- Low-carbon fuels
Carbon emissions from these fuels will increasingly need to be captured or offset.
Carbon Removal Becomes a Major Industry
By the middle of the century, removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere may become a major global industry.
Large-scale carbon capture and removal will be needed to offset unavoidable emissions and reduce past environmental damage.
This sector could become one of the largest new energy industries of the century.
The Possibility of Climate Engineering
If global warming accelerates, governments may consider geoengineering solutions. One approach involves releasing particles into the upper atmosphere to reduce solar radiation and slow temperature increases.
Such measures remain controversial and carry potential risks, but they may become part of future climate strategies.
The Gulf’s Role in the Energy Future
The Gulf region is uniquely positioned to shape the global energy future. As one of the world’s largest energy producers, the region has the resources and expertise to lead both traditional and renewable energy development.
Investments in solar power, hydrogen, carbon capture and advanced energy technologies are already positioning Gulf nations for the long-term transition.
A Responsibility to Future Generations
The people of 2100 will live with the consequences of today’s decisions. They will inherit the infrastructure, climate conditions and energy systems being built now.
The challenge for this generation is not simply to meet today’s energy needs, but to ensure a stable and sustainable future.
The energy choices made in this decade will help determine whether 2100 is remembered as a time of crisis — or the beginning of a new era of global sustainability.
