World energy consumption decreased for the first time in 30 years (-1.1%)
, as a result of the financial and economic crisis (GDP drop by 0.6% in 2009). This evolution is the result of two contrasting trends. Energy consumption growth
remained vigorous in several developing countries, specifically in Asia (+4%). Conversely, in OECD, consumption was severely cut by 4.7% in 2009 and was thus almost down to its 2000 levels. In North America, Europe and CIS, consumptions shrank by 4.5%, 5% and 8.5% respectively due to the slowdown in economic activity. China became the world's largest energy consumer (18% of the total) since its consumption surged by 8% during 2009 (from 4% in 2008). Oil remained the largest energy source (33%)
despite its share has been lowering over time. Coal posted a growing role
in the world's energy consumption: in 2009, it accounted for 27% of the total.