BP Global/Reports and publications/2004 in review: "2004 was the second consecutive year of high growth in global energy markets
A buoyant world economy contributed to the strongest growth rate in global primary energy consumption since 1984. In 2004, consumption of all fuels grew at above 10-year average rates. This strength in turn pushed prices for oil, natural gas and coal to record (nominal) levels.
Energy developments
Primary energy consumption increased by 4.3% in 2004. The strongest rise was in Asia Pacific, up by 8.9%, while North America recorded the weakest growth at 1.6%. Coal remained the fastest growing fuel, rising 6.3% globally. Oil consumption grew by 3.4%, the most rapid rate since 1986. Natural gas use rose by 3.3%. Hydroelectric and nuclear generation also experienced strong growth, rising 5% and 4.4%, respectively."