Factors affecting the composition of energy use in developing countries. Discussion paper

To help redress the problem posed by the escalating substitution in developing countries of oil and other commercial fuels for traditional energy sources, this study examines present and projected energy use in those countries. After an initial review of trends in major energy use over the past 30 years, an examination is made of energy supply (including energy prices and energy resources); factors affecting energy demand (changing energy use in the major end-use sectors, the reasons for the changes, and structural changes in the economy), and the effects of government policies on energy consumption. A summary of the study's findings and implications stresses the need to complement future government policy efforts to find substitutes for oil with coordinated efforts in regard to energy prices, supply, and major end-use sectors.