Speeches 2004

Seeking clarity in testing times

06/12/2004

Jeroen van der Veer, Chief Executive of the Royal Dutch/Shell Group and President of Royal Dutch Petroleum Company.

Jeroen van der Veer, Chief Executive of the Royal Dutch/Shell Group and President of Royal Dutch Petroleum Company.

World energy demand could grow by 60% by 2030, primarily in major emerging economies. Most countries will become increasingly dependent on energy imports. Meeting these expanding needs will be a severe test for the energy system and will depend on mobilising large-scale investment in increasingly complex and technologically demanding energy projects. Timely investment to renew and expand capacity is essential to maintain secure supplies and moderate prices. Energy needs must be met without imperilling our environment or quality of life. International energy companies- with their financial, technological and human resources- have an important role in meeting the energy challenge. This depends on governments allowing access to resources on profitable terms. Companies will only gain the necessary support from governments, customers, society, employees and shareholders if they are clear about their goals and approach.

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