Global primary energy consumption 2018-2023, by fuel

Oil is the most consumed primary energy fuel in the world. In 2023, some 196.43 exajoules worth of oil were consumed. That year, the consumption of fossil fuels registered an increase compared to the previous year.

Rising demand for fossil fuels

Demand for fossil fuels has remained high, as overall primary energy demand continues to increase. Excluding the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, the use of oil has consistently grown each year. Consumption of other non-renewable fuel types has been more varied. Global natural gas consumption has risen more or less consistently. Its properties as a less carbon-intensive fossil fuel than coal have led to an increase in its use in the power sector, overtaking coal use in major economies such as the United States.

Fossil fuels by region

The U.S. is the leading natural gas consuming country in the world, as well as the largest producer of this fossil fuel and of crude oil. Russia, China, and the Middle Eastern region follow, as they have either the richest reserves of these raw materials or account for the largest refining capacity.