Global Energy Monitor (GEM) is an open-access online database and mapping platform that compiles detailed global energy infrastructure data. Its primary purpose is to catalogue fossil fuel and renewable energy projects, enabling users to view, analyse and download structured datasets on capacity, status, ownership and location. Finance professionals may find it relevant for assessing asset exposure, infrastructure trends, ownership networks and market dynamics in the energy sector.

Organisation behind the tool

Global Energy Monitor is a non-governmental, nonprofit research organisation that collects, verifies and publishes open data on energy infrastructure worldwide. It operates a suite of interactive tools and underlying databases supported by a distributed research team. The organisation also maintains GEM.wiki, a collaborative repository of project profiles and methodological detail.

What the tool does

• Provides interactive global trackers for energy infrastructure, including coal, oil and gas plants, pipelines, and renewable power projects.
• Compiles detailed asset-level data such as project status, capacity, fuel type, ownership and geographic coordinates.
• Offers interactive maps and filterable tables for visual exploration of facilities.
• Allows users to download datasets (via email link) covering power, renewables, heavy industry and special projects.
• Includes a Global Energy Ownership Tracker mapping ownership chains across major infrastructure categories.

Target audience

Primary users include researchers, policymakers and analysts tracking energy systems and infrastructure. The tool is also used by academics, media, non-governmental organisations, and the general public interested in energy project data and trends.

Relevance to finance professionals

• Risk assessment – Identify exposure to energy infrastructure assets that may face regulatory, climate or transition risks.
• ESG analysis – Support environmental reporting with data on fossil fuel and renewable project portfolios.
• Market/commodity insights – Examine infrastructure trends affecting energy supply, demand and regional market dynamics.
• Investment context – Inform long-term strategic decisions by analysing capacity build-out, retirements and ownership structures across energy sectors.