The hydrocarbon industry, since the discovery of vast oil and gas reserves, has played a pivotal role in powering and driving the global economy. Having a profound impact on transportation, manufacturing, petrochemical production, and electricity generation, these resources are somewhat indispensable to modern society.

However, the industry is confronted with a growing set of challenges, most notably environmental concerns and resource depletion. With the increasing pressure to reduce emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources and low funding in fossil-related projects, the question that lingers is: Should I remain loyal to the hydrocarbon industry, or it is time to explore new horizons? “Should I Stay or Should I leave?" is a captivating journey through the complex web of factors that shape the past, present, and future of the energy sector.

This thought-stimulating book will begin on a historic expedition, unraveling the indelible role of hydrocarbons in the energy space following its discovery. Not only will it traverse how the industry has been a steady pillar to energy generation and socio-economic growth, but also, its significant contribution to climate change and the consequences of financial crises.

Delving further back into the era before oil and gas, the book will highlight the inception of our energy dependency and how it has evolved over centuries, exploring the focal moments of job loss and geopolitical turmoil.

The narrative will pivot to the present, offering insight into the industry’s challenges and current state. This will include rig counts, general outlook on investment in oil and gas, and the three levers of global energy security and sustainability.

Lessons drawn from the oil and gas sector provide valuable perspectives on adaptation and innovation. The book will showcase the transformative potential of offshore wind and the untapped promise of geothermal drilling, illustrating how these alternatives can rewrite the energy history.

The era of energy transition is also promoting diversified and cleaner sources of energy into the energy mix. The book will address the advantages and challenges associated with these sustainable forms of energy.

Addressing the way forward to tackle the “3As”: Availability, Accessibility and Affordability, the book will underscore the multifaceted importance of crude oil beyond energy, revealing how two incidents--the cut of gas from Russia and strike in Australia LNG--have proven the importance of Natural Gas(NG) and the need for diverse sources of energy. More importantly, “Should I stay or Should I leave?” will hammer on the urgency of skill transfer.