Elon Musk said “civilization would collapse” if the world stopped drilling for gas and oil in the short term, but he must continue to “accelerate” sustainable energy sources.
The Chief Tesla participated in the Offshore Northern Seas conference in Norway on the future of the energy industry, including the role and development of new technologies.
Speaking to reporters, he also said that another challenge the world is facing is the birth rate, arguing that we must “have more babies” or “we will die with a whine in adult diapers.”
Asked if we should use oil and gas, the richest person in the world said: “Realistically, we need to use oil and gas in the short term, otherwise civilization would collapse.
“In order for civilization to continue to function, we need oil and gas. Especially these days, with Russian sanctions, we need to provide oil and gas to make civilization work.
“I think any reasonable person would conclude it. While at the same time it would accelerate the advent of sustainable energy.”
Asked whether Norway should continue drilling for oil and gas, he said: “I think some further exploration is warranted at this time.
“One of the biggest challenges the world has ever faced is the transition to sustainable energy and a sustainable economy. It will take a few decades to complete.”
He said offshore wind power generation in the North Sea, combined with stationary battery packs, could become a key energy source. “It could provide a strong and sustainable energy source in the winter,” she said.
He added that one of his “least obvious favorite things to worry about” was the world birth rate.
“It is important that people have enough children to support civilization,” he said.
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“They say civilization could die with a bang or a whine. If we don’t have enough babies, we’ll die with a whine in adult diapers. That would be depressing.
“Have more children. At least make enough children to support the population.”
Musk also said he aimed to get Tesla electric car self-driving technology ready by the end of the year, while also “focused” on getting his SpaceX Starship “into orbit.”
