Enverus Unveils Its 2026 Global Energy Outlook with Focus on Emerging Trends and Geopolitical Influences
Enverus Releases Its 2026 Global Energy Outlook
On January 13, 2026, Enverus, a frontrunner in energy software-as-a-service (SaaS) and analytics, published its anticipated 2026 Global Energy Outlook. This document sheds light on various dynamics within the energy sector, including the pressures on commodity prices, the increasing strain on power systems, and the significant geopolitical factors influencing oil markets. With a dedicated analysis from over 120 experts, this report presents crucial insights into hydrocarbon prices and the operational efficiency of upstream providers.
Key Highlights of the Outlook
The 2026 report projects that Brent crude oil prices will average around $55 per barrel, suggesting a reset in pricing as the year progresses. The analysis indicates that early 2026 may see a downturn, but a recovery is likely in the latter half. Additionally, Henry Hub natural gas prices are forecasted to be approximately $3.80 per MMBtu this winter and about $3.60 per MMBtu in summer, while European TTF natural gas prices are expected to remain steady in the $10–$12 per MMBtu range.
The Evolving Energy Landscape
"Our research indicates that oil prices will experience a reset in 2026 but will not reflect a long-term scarcity scenario," stated Dane Gregoris, Managing Director at Enverus Intelligence® Research. The report details a recalibration of capital investment strategies, leaning towards specific areas, such as gas-fired generation and renewable natural gas (RNG) created from landfill waste. This shift occurs as grid operators increasingly adopt artificial intelligence (AI) for more accurate load forecasting.
Adjustments to Market Conditions
The findings underscore the transformative nature of 2026 for independent system operators (ISOs), which are tightening their AI-assisted load assumptions that lead to revised ISO load forecasts. In tandem with utility reforms, there is a growing trend of data centers seeking more localized, behind-the-meter generation to enhance reliability and operational efficiency.
Alongside these changes, the report anticipates that gas supply from the Permian Basin will increase by roughly 1.1 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) by the end of 2026, driven by ongoing pipeline expansion projects directed towards Gulf Coast markets.
Navigating Geopolitical Challenges
The geopolitical landscape, particularly the evolving conditions in Venezuela and Iran, plays a significant role in global supply sentiment. The 2026 Global Energy Outlook emphasizes the necessity for market players to remain agile and vigilant as they navigate potential market fluctuations tied to geopolitical events.
Investors and industry professionals are urged to prioritize selective investments across transition technologies in the face of emerging challenges. The report points to landfill RNG and carbon capture and storage (CCS) as promising areas that can yield favorable returns despite weaker incentive signals facing hydrogen and manure-based RNG.
Conclusion
Enverus, leveraging its extensive dataset from products like PRISM® and FOUNDATIONS® - Carbon Innovation, has compiled a valuable resource that is crucial for professionals in finance, operations, renewables, and oil field services to strategize effectively for the evolving energy landscape. The complete 2026 Global Energy Outlook e-book is publicly available for those interested in gaining deeper insights into the future of energy markets.
With a dynamic focus on operational efficiencies and smarter investment strategies, Enverus is positioning itself as a pivotal player in the most complex energy market in history. For more information, visit www.enverus.com.