Fossil Fuels Still Generate 57% of the World's Electricity

When the Energy Institute reported in its Statistical Review of World Energy that the global grid is still ruled by hydrocarbons, it may have come as a surprise to some observers. Now, another report has confirmed the status quo: alternative energy sources of electricity are expanding, but the world still generates most of its electricity from coal, gas, and oil. Some 57% of global electricity is generated from hydrocarbons, Pew Research Center reported, after analyzing data produced by net-zero outlet Ember, which is also a partner of the Energy…

Refining & Products Context

Downstream margins — or crack spreads — have experienced considerable volatility as refinery operators navigate feedstock cost fluctuations, product demand seasonality, and evolving fuel specifications. Gasoline and distillate margins serve as key profitability levers for integrated refiners.

Refinery utilization rates, particularly in the U.S. Gulf Coast and Northwest European hubs, directly influence product availability and pricing. Unplanned outages, scheduled turnarounds, and weather-related disruptions are recurring factors that tighten regional product supply.

What to Watch

Key metrics to watch include refinery utilization rates, weekly distillate inventory builds or draws, and crack spread movements, which serve as real-time indicators of refining profitability across major processing hubs.