According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), world demand for electricity will decline for the first time since 1945 with a fall of 3.5% in 2009. This decline is expected to be slightly more than 2% in China and 5% for the OECD countries. Figures contrast with forecasts published last year when the Agency was reckoning on 3.2% annual growth in global consumption between 2006 and 2015. The IEA also forecasts a strong fall in investments in renewable energies and the exploration/production of oil and gas. It fears there will be a rise in prices once demand picks up again. “Investment in renewable energies will fall by 38% in 2009” for the first time in 10 years, the report states. This decline is the result of a fall in oil and gas prices and difficulties experienced by companies when seeking credit. (I.L./transl.jl)