Summary

The impact of the changing global strategic landscape on energy markets is being felt across the world, and is the subject of ongoing debate within industry and governments alike. These changes not only affect the evolution of oil markets and their influence on production rates and pricing, but also a host of other factors. These include energy security, the effects of global economic crises, and the growing market presence of producers from the Gulf states, both in terms of their conventional reserves and their development of alternative and renewable sources. This book provides a variety of informed views on these trends and their consequences for both producers and consumers in the Middle East and elsewhere. It explores the potential benefits and risks of nuclear energy production, as well as public sentiment toward nuclear development worldwide - particularly following recent events in Japan, the repercussions of which continue to be felt both in politics and industry. The ongoing effects of the global economic crisis are also discussed, particularly with reference to their consequences for energy markets worldwide.