Economics of Energy There are different theories with respect to energy. Mearns argues that people should save energy, because there is a limit to how much proved reserves of hydrocarbons and there may even be limits to how much non-hydrocarbon energy available. It is necessary, therefore, to be highly efficient in our energy use (IanMearns.co.uk, 2014). His views contrast with those of someone like Christof Ruhl, who is the chief economist for BP. Ruhl argues that such efficiency is already occurring, that the West is experiencing lower levels of energy intensity and demand is primarily being driven by the developing world. Changes in the fuel mix are also a factor, he argues, and when developing nations follow the West in lowering their energy intensity, energy demand will start to stabilize (Ruhl, 2014).

The EIA release (2014) supports Ruhl's contention that energy use in the U.S. is starting to stabilize, and that further development of domestic energy reserves is reshaping energy markets.

Their views different in terms of the use of energy, which...

Mearns does not seem to agree, and appears to view energy as wasteful. He would like to see more efficient use of energy, but does not appear to agree with Ruhl about whether this is already happening.
There is a definite difference in the underlying philosophy of these two gentlemen. Mearns clearly sees energy as a means to an end, and that end is social, rather than economic. He argues that people should note "have to grow up in a cold home," a social outcome. This comes from his role as an MP; Ruhl works for BP and sees energy as a unit of economic value. Further, the two men differ on where energy development should go. Mearns seeks increased efficiency and the development of non-hydrocarbon sources, while Ruhl is hydrocarbon first but understands that over time there will be a switch to renewable sources.

Part III. Gilding's (no date) opening premise is a little too hyperbolic to be taken seriously. Renewables are not disrupting business models, so on…