Defence and strategic implications of energy security trends

Abstract

Countries aim for either Energy Independence or Energy Security. Energy Independence happens when a country has enough natural resources to meet its demands. Most countries aim for Energy Security, which entails access to fossil fuels, reliable energy storage, good energy usage management, renewable energy sources, and a reliable power grid infrastructure. Countries that sit on fossil fuels and critical minerals can become important strategic actors. They may leverage other countries’ energy needs, shaping foreign relations. Besides fossil fuels, critical minerals and green technologies have been securitised as issues of influence, power rivalry, and new supply chain vulnerabilities in geopolitical competition.