The International Energy Agency (IEA) recommended 10 measures, including telework and license plate rotation, to mitigate the impact of high oil prices from the Middle East conflict. These aim to reduce demand in road transport, aviation, and industry. Executive director Fatih Birol warned of the largest supply disruption in oil market history.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) issued a report with 10 recommendations to curb fuel consumption amid the oil crisis triggered by the US, Israel, and Iran conflict in the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz closure, handling 20% of global oil (about 20 million barrels daily), has spiked Brent prices over 60% in 20 days, with forecasts up to $175 or $180 per barrel. Road transport accounts for 45% of world oil demand, so measures target it primarily, alongside aviation, cooking, and industry. Widespread adoption would 'amplify their global impact and help mitigate the fallout,' the report states. Proposals include: telework to skip commutes; lower speed limits; public transport use; license plate rotation or 'peak-and-plate'; efficient driving practices; switching bifuel vehicles from LPG to gasoline to save LPG for cooking; skipping business flights if alternatives exist; electric cooking promotion; and petrochemical efficiency tweaks. IEA executive director Fatih Birol said: 'The war in the Middle East is causing a severe energy crisis, including the biggest supply disruption in oil market history.' The IEA released its largest emergency reserves to date and is engaging key governments. It urges public sector leadership and targeted aid for the needy over broad subsidies.