Why the Oil & Gas Industry Still Matters (Despite the Energy Transition)
Industry Intelligence

Why the Oil & Gas Industry Still Matters (Despite the Energy Transition)

January 26, 2026
6 min read
Omnivance Research TeamOmnivance Research Team

The Energy Transition Is Real — But It' Not Instant

There is no doubt that the world is changing its energy mix.

  • Renewable energy capacity is growing
  • Governments are committing to emissions reduction
  • Companies are investing in cleaner technologies
  • Consumers are becoming more energy-conscious

But energy systems do not change overnight.

Energy infrastructure is expensive, long-lived, deeply embedded in economies, and unevenly distributed across countries.

Most power plants, refineries, pipelines, and transport systems were built to last 30 to 50 years. Replacing them takes time, capital, and political coordination.

The transition is happening — but it is gradual, uneven, and complex.

Oil & Gas Still Powers the Majority of the World

Despite growth in renewables, Oil & Gas continues to supply a significant share of global energy demand.

Why? Because Oil & Gas supports:

  • Transportation (cars, trucks, aviation, shipping)
  • Electricity generation in many regions
  • Industrial manufacturing
  • Chemicals and plastics
  • Agriculture and fertilizers
  • Heating and cooking for millions of households

Many of these uses do not yet have scalable, affordable alternatives everywhere in the world.

In fast-growing economies, energy demand is still rising — and Oil & Gas often fills the gap.

Natural Gas Plays a Special Role

Within the Oil & Gas industry, natural gas has gained particular importance.

Why? Because compared to coal and oil, natural gas:

  • Produces fewer emissions
  • Is flexible for power generation
  • Supports grid stability
  • Acts as a transition fuel in many energy strategies

Many countries are increasing natural gas usage even while expanding renewables.

This doesn' stop the transition — it enables it by reducing emissions while renewables scale up.

Oil & Gas Is More Than Just Fuel

Another reason Oil & Gas still matters is that its role goes beyond energy.

Oil & Gas is deeply embedded in:

  • Chemicals and petrochemicals
  • Packaging and plastics
  • Medical equipment
  • Electronics
  • Construction materials
  • Textiles and consumer goods

Even in a low-carbon future, demand for these materials does not disappear overnight.

This makes Oil & Gas part of a broader industrial ecosystem, not just an energy supplier.

Energy Security Has Returned to the Spotlight

Recent global events have reminded governments and businesses of one hard truth: Energy security matters.

Reliable energy supply affects:

  • Economic stability
  • Inflation
  • National security
  • Social stability

Oil & Gas infrastructure, reserves, and supply chains remain critical buffers during disruptions.

This is why many countries continue to invest in Oil & Gas even while committing to long-term transition goals.

Omnivance Research Team

Omnivance Research Team

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