The concept of energy security is undergoing a fundamental transformation. No longer confined to ensuring fossil fuel supply, it must now address the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape—one shaped by clean energy technologies, digitalisation, geopolitical tensions, and climate risks. This was the central message from the Summit on the Future of Energy Security, convened by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the UK Government in London.

Over 60 governments and 50 companies gathered to chart a path towards a more resilient and sustainable energy future. “Energy security is national security, and it is a fundamental duty of government”, declared UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He emphasised the UK’s commitment to turning energy from a source of vulnerability into one of strength, security, and national pride.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strategic importance of energy for Europe’s economy. “Reliable and affordable energy is the lifeblood of our economies. We are investing over €100 billion to ensure that the clean industries of the future are built in Europe”, she announced, underlining efforts to enhance energy autonomy through clean manufacturing.

Geopolitical Shifts, Clean Energy, and a New Definition of Security

The last few years have exposed the fragility of global energy systems. From the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to supply chain disruptions, extreme weather events and cyber threats, the nature of energy security risks has evolved dramatically.

Ed Miliband, UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, warned: “The world is entering a new era, where national security is inseparable from energy security”. He stressed the importance of global leadership and cooperation in addressing shared challenges and seizing opportunities in the clean energy transition.

In this context, renewable energy is no longer just an environmental imperative but a geopolitical strategy. By diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, countries can enhance their sovereignty and resilience.

IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol reinforced this, stating: “Diversification—whether in oil, gas or critical minerals—remains the golden rule of energy security”. He pointed to the rapid deployment of solar, wind, battery storage and green hydrogen as essential components of a secure energy system.

Investment, Infrastructure, and Digital Resilience

As electrification accelerates across sectors, the demand for robust, flexible and smart energy infrastructure has never been greater. The Summit highlighted that modern power grids must withstand not only rising consumption but also cyberattacks and climate-induced disruptions.

“We are entering a new age of electricity driven by clean technologies and digital innovation, but this brings new vulnerabilities”, cautioned Birol. He called for significant investment in grid modernisation, energy storage, and cybersecurity measures to safeguard future energy systems.

Another critical focus was the security of supply chains for critical minerals, such as lithium, cobalt and rare earth elements, which are vital for clean energy technologies. Ensuring sustainable and ethical sourcing, alongside strategic reserves, was identified as a priority for both governments and industry leaders.

Public-Private Partnerships and Emergency Preparedness

The Summit underscored that achieving energy security in a decarbonising world requires unprecedented levels of public-private collaboration. Policy frameworks must incentivise investment, while companies must innovate to deliver solutions that balance reliability, affordability and sustainability.

Leaders also reaffirmed the need to maintain robust emergency response mechanisms, particularly in managing oil and gas supplies during the transitional period. Flexibility, coordination, and proactive risk management were highlighted as essential tools to navigate future crises.

A Collective Vision for 21st Century Energy Security

Marking the 50th anniversary of the IEA—founded in response to the 1973 oil crisis—the Summit served as a reminder that while the nature of risks has shifted, the core mission remains unchanged: to ensure that energy is secure, reliable, and accessible for all.

“We must be prepared to act quickly and collectively”, concluded Birol, urging nations to integrate energy security into every aspect of the clean energy transition. He stressed that resilience must be designed into future energy systems from the outset.

The consensus from London is clear: energy security in the 21st century will be built on innovation, diversification, resilience and cooperation. Renewables, digitalisation and strategic partnerships will define how nations safeguard their economies, societies and climate ambitions in an increasingly complex world.