Shell has projected that global demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) will increase by approximately 65% by 2050, reaching nearly 700 million metric tons annually.
The energy supermajor outlined the forecast in its latest market outlook, pointing to a structural shift in Asian energy consumption and the rapidly growing power requirements of data centers as primary catalysts for the expansion.
The projection underscores the continued relevance of natural gas in the global energy transition, particularly as Asian markets seek lower-emission alternatives to coal.
While renewable energy adoption accelerates, Shell’s analysis suggests that LNG will remain a critical bridge fuel, supported by industrial growth and digital infrastructure demands in the region.
This long-term demand signal reinforces the strategic importance of LNG infrastructure investments.
For traders and investors, the outlook highlights sustained tailwinds for the sector, even as short-term price volatility persists.