Energy as National Security: Rethinking the Future of Renewables and Clean Power

Energy as a National Security Priority: Rethinking the Role of Renewables

Energy should be approached as a national security priority, not just as a source of climate change or its solution. Humans have existed on Earth for roughly 300,000 years, while the planet itself is about 4.5 billion years old. If this tells us anything, it’s that our presence is just a fleeting moment in the vast timeline of Earth. Whether or not humanity affects the planet’s long-term trajectory, the Earth will continue for thousands, perhaps millions, of years after us.

Over time, various energy solutions have come to dominate our vocabulary. One of the most prominent terms is “renewable energy.” However, this has become a controversial topic due to the many implications that remain largely unexplored or unproven in the long run—unlike coal, which has been around for over 6,000 years. A major question remains: What truly qualifies as “renewable energy”? The industry’s reliance on fossil fuels raises doubts about whether the term “renewable” is genuinely accurate or just another marketing buzzword designed to generate business.

Indeed, there is a valid argument to be made that the entire lifecycle of a renewable energy product—from conception to energy generation—relies on fossil fuels in one way or another. While the term "renewable" was likely coined to distinguish this new form of energy, it also aligns with a historical truth: energy is central to the survival of nations. History has shown us that wars, for example, are often fought over energy resources. A recent example is the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, where energy—specifically natural gas—has played a pivotal role. The mere suggestion of NATO potentially annexing Ukraine sparked a decade-long war because both countries are key suppliers of gas to Europe.

Energy, in this context, is not just an economic commodity—it is a matter of national security. This is why it is critical for countries to diversify their energy portfolios, avoiding over-reliance on any single source or supplier. The energy transition, often framed by governments as a tool for populism, needs to be carefully managed to avoid leaving nations vulnerable to unpredictable forces. When energy prices rise or blackouts become more frequent, it is the most vulnerable members of society who suffer the most.

Thus, renewable energy should not be seen merely as a solution to climate change. It can and should be part of a broader strategy to improve humanity's prospects. Energy is everywhere—shaping how we organize our societies, from powering our homes to fueling data centers. The energy market is vast, and its demands are endless. This is why off-grid alternatives are gaining attention, as the infrastructure supporting current electricity grids is being stretched to its limits. It's not just that fossil fuels are finite; the grid itself is becoming increasingly constrained.

This brings us to an important shift in focus: clean energy, not just renewable energy, should take center stage. The distinction between renewable and clean energy is subtle but crucial. Renewable energy often still depends on fossil fuels in its production and transportation. Clean energy, on the other hand, focuses on minimizing harmful emissions and ensuring long-term sustainability. As energy infrastructure reaches its limits, both types of energy—renewable and clean—must be integrated into the broader energy market.

What is preventing the widespread adoption of clean energy is, in part, its price. However, history teaches us that human innovation can overcome such challenges. To ensure a reliable and competitive energy market that meets both current and future technological ambitions, governments must create a carbon offset system that is systematic, fair, and efficient. Such policies would level the playing field and encourage the growth of companies that manufacture and provide clean energy solutions, driving the shift towards a net-zero future.

Governments are now more aware than ever of the need for a diverse energy portfolio. Natural gas production, for instance, has lagged due to political and social pressures, making it harder to secure a reliable supply. The supply chain disruptions experienced during the pandemic have made the supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and oil even more unpredictable. This unpredictability fuels instability, as individuals and companies react erratically, compounding the chaos. Although governments recognize the importance of ensuring a steady energy supply, political leaders often act impulsively, pushing for the rapid phase-out of fossil fuels. Studies show that the most effective strategy is to gradually incorporate clean energy sources while reducing dependency on conventional fuels.

Take Australia, for example. The country is struggling to operate its coal plants efficiently due to an oversupply of energy that the grid cannot accommodate. This highlights the need for better planning in the transition to alternative energy. When wind and solar don’t generate enough power, we are forced to rely on coal or gas plants. One potential solution is to repurpose these existing plants, incorporating more diversified energy sources as we transition.

Energy is central to our lives in ways we often overlook. From our daily routines to the functioning of global economies, energy is the backbone of modern society. As we navigate the current energy crisis, it’s vital to consider investments that can help alleviate the strain. Nuclear energy, especially the development of modular reactors, is gaining popularity as a reliable energy source for industries that require large amounts of power. Likewise, green hydrogen—a fuel created using water and renewable electricity—has drawn significant attention. Its potential to serve as a clean and scalable energy solution makes it an exciting development on the horizon.

In conclusion, energy is not just a commodity—it is a cornerstone of national security, economic stability, and technological progress. As we work to diversify our energy sources and invest in cleaner, more sustainable solutions, we must consider the broader implications of these choices. The future of energy is not just about solving the climate crisis; it is about ensuring a secure, stable, and prosperous future for all societies