What Is the Hubbert Curve? The Hubbert curve is a method for predicting the likely production rate of any finite resource over time. When plotted on a chart, the result resembles a symmetrical bell-shaped curve. The theory was developed in the 1950s to describe the production cycle of fossil fuels.

What is the Hubbert curve and peak oil?

The Hubbert peak theory says that for any given geographical area, from an individual oil-producing region to the planet as a whole, the rate of petroleum production tends to follow a bell-shaped curve. It is one of the primary theories on peak oil.

What does the top of the Hubbert curve represent?

Specifically, Hubbert’s peak refers to the point at which this production rate is at its highest with demand for the resource rising, and after this it predicts a drop in correlation to the increased demand.