Shell's "New Lens Scenarios"

By Wim Thomas Chief Energy Advisor, Shell

Shell's New Lens Scenarios explore how economic, political and social forces might shape the global energy system and environment over the 21st century. The scenarios help bring our volatile world into sharper focus as we consider two possible versions of the future. One scenario called Mountains sees stronger political influence and cleaner-burning natural gas becoming the most important energy source with early action to limit carbon dioxide emissions. The other called Oceans sees stronger market forces and solar becoming the dominant energy source by about 2070, but with slower action to address climate change. The scenarios highlight areas of public policy likely to have the greatest influence on the development of a cleaner and greener energy system.

Shell has a 40-year history of using scenario planning to explore possible future landscapes and aid strategic decision-making. To explore Mountains and Oceans in more detail, download Shell’s New Lens Scenarios at www.shell.com/scenarios.

The presentation was given at Secretariat Headquarters on Monday, 6 May 2013 from 3:00 – 4:00 pm.