Capitals, April 21 (SANA) The U.S.–Israeli–Iranian conflict, coupled with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has driven countries worldwide to accelerate a structural transition toward renewable energy, as fossil fuels grow increasingly vulnerable to supply shocks and market volatility.
Data from the International Energy Agency shows that more than 185 government announcements have been issued across 60 countries since the onset of the Hormuz crisis, all aimed at addressing the consequences of disruptions to this vital maritime route.
While some governments have adopted short-term measures—such as increasing coal use or reducing fuel taxes to ease pressure on consumers—others are seizing the crisis as an opportunity to enhance energy independence by expanding renewables, electrification, and nuclear power.
Europe: Accelerating the Exit from Fossil Fuels
In Europe, the European Commission has called for speeding up electricity grid development. France announced plans to cut its reliance on fossil fuels to less than half by 2035, alongside expanding electric infrastructure across construction, transport, and industrial sectors.
Sweden has introduced financial incentives for households and businesses to adopt renewable energy and electric vehicles, emphasizing electricity as the foundation for price stability and reduced exposure to oil market fluctuations.
Asia: Building a New Energy Architecture
In Asia, China is moving aggressively to build a more flexible and diversified energy system. The Philippines has identified solar energy and battery storage as strategic priorities, accelerating renewable energy deployment.
Although Japan has temporarily eased restrictions on coal plants, it reaffirmed its commitment to expanding renewable and nuclear energy by 2040, signing a $40 billion agreement with the United States to develop small modular reactors.
In India, where coal accounts for 73% of electricity generation, the government accelerated approvals for wind energy and battery storage projects after cutting fuel taxes to contain price increases.
Across Southeast Asia, Cambodia eliminated tariffs on electric vehicles and solar systems to encourage adoption at the consumer level.
Beyond Asia: Expanding Clean Energy Ambitions
In the Caribbean, Barbados launched an $81 million initiative to boost energy storage and expand renewable projects. Meanwhile, Kenya announced plans to increase power capacity to 10,000 megawatts, including 3,000 megawatts from nuclear energy, as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen energy security.
A Structural Shift in Global Energy Policy
These developments indicate that the current crisis is no longer just a temporary supply disruption, but a global catalyst for reshaping energy strategies. While some countries rely on short-term fixes, others are investing in structural transformations that could redefine the global energy landscape in the coming years.
The overall trend points toward reducing dependence on fossil fuels, expanding clean energy sources, and building more resilient and sustainable energy systems to ensure long-term energy security in an increasingly uncertain world.
Global attention is now focused on developments in the Middle East, as a ceasefire deadline between the United States and Iran approaches, alongside a new round of expected negotiations in Islamabad.
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