News World Energy Infrastructure

Energy: USD 3.4 trillion of investment expected in 2026

According to the International Energy Agency, global energy investment is set to reach USD 3.4 trillion in 2026 (+5%), nearly 60% of it related to electricity.

In its World Energy Investment 2026 report, published on 28 May 2026, the International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that global energy investment will reach USD 3.4 trillion in 2026, 5% more than in 2025. It stood at USD 2.7 trillion in 2015.

Electricity-related spending already makes up nearly 60% of the total: USD 1.6 trillion for electricity supply and infrastructure, rising to USD 2 trillion when end-use electrification is included. China leads (USD 940 billion), ahead of the United States (615) and the European Union (440). Africa totals USD 110 billion.

The IEA notes that around three-quarters of the investment anticipated in 2026 is based on decisions made well before the Middle East conflict began: as with previous shocks, many impacts will only become visible later.

Expected energy investment in 2026 by region
China
940 USD bn
United States
615 USD bn
European Union
440 USD bn
Middle East
195 USD bn
Latin America
190 USD bn
India
170 USD bn
Eurasia
130 USD bn
Japan and Korea
120 USD bn
Africa
110 USD bn
Southeast Asia
105 USD bn

Source: International Energy Agency — World Energy Investment 2026

Key figures

IndicatorValueReference period
Expected global energy investmentUSD 3.4 trillion (+5%)2026 vs 2025
Reference levelUSD 2.7 trillion2015
Electricity supply and infrastructureUSD 1.6 trillion2026
Share of electricity-related spendingnearly 60%2026
Africa110 USD bn2026

Outlook, limits and risks

The 2026 amounts are estimates published in May 2026. The IEA warns that the effects of the Middle East conflict on investment decisions will only appear gradually.

Source

Original summary written from the sources cited. It is neither investment advice nor an offer. Figures and forecasts belong to their authors and may be revised.

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