In a new article by the team of the Center for Energy Diplomacy and Geopolitics, the authors define the concept of energy security and examine its technical, economic, geopolitical and environmental dimensions. The authors emphasise that modern global energy demand and the global trend towards decarbonisation require states to balance supply reliability with resilience to climate risks.
The article then analyses the strategies of leading economies – Germany, Japan, the United States and China – as well as countries with comparable levels of energy system development (Kazakhstan, Egypt and Iran). Particular attention is paid to areas such as diversification of sources, development of renewable energy and nuclear power, improving energy efficiency, and creating energy storage systems. Based on a comparative review, the report demonstrates how each country has struck its own balance between imports and domestic energy production.
The authors compare the structure of the energy balance and the degree of import dependence: Uzbekistan is close to Kazakhstan and Iran in terms of the share of fossil fuels (mainly natural gas), but lags behind countries with developed renewable energy and nuclear power (Germany, Japan, China). At the same time, it is emphasised that low external dependence does not guarantee sustainability — peak shortages and infrastructure wear and tear are becoming critical challenges even for resource-rich countries.
The concluding part of the article formulates recommendations for Uzbekistan: diversification of the energy balance through large-scale development of renewable energy and nuclear power, modernisation of infrastructure and introduction of energy-saving practices, creation of storage systems and smart grids, strengthening of regional cooperation on energy exchange, as well as institutional reforms and human resource development. The authors emphasise the adaptation of international best practices, taking into account the country’s national characteristics.
Read the article in the Journal of Interdisciplinary Science
* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.
