Global energy consumption reached its highest point ever in 2025, with fossil fuels still accounting for the vast majority of energy use despite significant advancements in renewable power, according to a recent report from the Energy Institute.
The Energy Institute's 2026 Statistical Review of World Energy found that oil, natural gas, and coal collectively supplied 86% of global energy in the past year. This highlights the world's persistent dependence on these sources for powering homes, businesses, transportation, and industry, even as investments in wind and solar power continue to grow.
Amidst this global energy landscape, U.S. oil production achieved a record 21.1 million barrels per day in 2025. The United States also maintained its position as the world's largest producer of natural gas and the leading exporter of petroleum products.
President Donald Trump has made increasing domestic oil and gas production a central element of his economic policy. His administration argues that this strategy is crucial for lowering energy costs for American consumers, bolstering national security, and stimulating economic growth. White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers stated that Trump's "energy dominance agenda has been undeniably successful in unleashing reliable, affordable, and secure energy," attributing lower prices, job creation, and enhanced energy security to increased U.S. oil, natural gas, and coal output.
The report's findings emerge at a time of heightened geopolitical tension, particularly concerning energy security and maritime trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz. While the report's data predates recent escalations, it underscores the vulnerability of global energy supplies to international conflicts. Approximately 20 million barrels of oil and one-fifth of the world's liquefied natural gas pass through the Strait of Hormuz daily.
Economist Stephen Moore emphasized that global energy markets are sensitive to disruptions in the Middle East, noting that flare-ups in the region have historically led to market instability and upward pressure on energy prices. He argued that the ongoing conflict illustrates the importance of expanding domestic energy production to mitigate such impacts.
EJ Antoni, Chief Economist at the Heritage Foundation, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that recent events necessitate a move beyond energy independence toward what Trump terms "energy dominance." He asserted that the U.S. must continue to expand its domestic energy production and refining capacity to strengthen its energy security and shield itself from geopolitical shocks, a key aspect of Trump's broader economic platform.