Without policy change, global energy demand is projected to increase by over 50% between now and 2030. Fossil energy remains the dominant source of energy to 2030 in both scenarios, but significantly slower growth in fossil fuel demand can be achieved under the Alternative scenario. Under IEA's Alternative Scenario, World Primary Energy Demand in 2030 is about 10% lower than under no-change scenarios. Policies to encourage the most efficient supply and use of energy can, according to the IEA, contribute to almost 80% of avoided CO emissions by 2030. In that context technological breakthrough, which changes the way we use energy, is essential for a sustainable energy future. The IEA also offers a Beyond Alternative Policy Scenario which sees even more ambitious goals for 2030 and which would take radical technology breakthrough. The IEA Outlook offers practical guidance to policy makers about the potential impacts of the very many energy policy options being considered worldwide and the costs and benefits associated with them. We welcome the Alternative Policy Scenario findings as drivers for change for Ireland and for all countries. Irish energy policy is also being informed by the important work of the IEA (2006) on energy technology scenarios and strategies to 2050. We will, under the new policy framework, develop Ireland's own energy forecasting and analysis capability taking account of the implications of global trends and IEA scenarios. This will be a key part of the planned review of energy policy goals and targets every two years from 2007 onwards.