As a group, the developing countries represent the largest source of growth in global energy demand. In 1991, they accounted for about one quarter of global energy consumption and, by 2010, their share is expected to rise to over 35%. The implications of developments in these countries are, therefore, of special importance both for the global energy system and for the global environment. This study examines the recent trends in energy demand in a group of developing countries as well as the factors which underpin the growth in energy consumption. For this purpose, it considers energy demand on an end-use sectoral basis and examines the effects of a range of parameters including the changing levels and patterns of industrialisation, the increasing share of populations living in urban areas, and the rising demand for transport services, all of which are associated with growth and development.
