Why Energy Security is Key to Political Stability and Prosperity
By Asha Wandulu
Energy policy is the backbone of modern civilization. It shapes economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social well-being, making it a cornerstone of effective governance.
The right energy policy ensures that nations can meet their development goals, empower their citizens,enhance regional cooperation and maintain geopolitical stability.
In this context, ultra-cost-effective energy sources like fossil fuels and nuclear energy emerge as the most pragmatic choices for powering our modern world.
These energy sources drive policy development and governance, supported by concrete examples and evidence.
Additionally, energy is the lifeblood of any economy. Without reliable and affordable energy, industries cannot function, healthcare systems falter, and education becomes inaccessible.
For developing nations, energy policy is particularly critical. It determines whether a country can industrialize, create jobs, and lift its population out of poverty, and inorder to do this, effective governance is very crucial because it requires energy security.
Nations that can produce or access affordable energy are better positioned to maintain political stability, protect their sovereignty, and provide essential services to their citizens.
Fossil fuels and nuclear energy offer the reliability and scalability needed to achieve energy security.
A case study of China’s meteoric economic growth over the past four decades was fueled by a strategic energy policy that prioritized coal and, more recently, nuclear energy.
Coal provided the cheap, abundant energy needed to build infrastructure and manufacture goods at a large scale. Today, China is also investing heavily in nuclear power to meet its ever growing energy demands.
This dual approach has enabled China to become the world’s second-largest economy and a global leader in technology and innovation.
Furthermore, India, home to over 1.4 billion people, has relied on coal to electrify its rural areas and power its industries. By leveraging its vast coal reserves, India has brought electricity to millions of households, improving living standards and enabling economic growth.
At the same time, India is expanding its nuclear energy capacity to ensure long-term energy security and reduce reliance on imports.
This balanced energy policy has been instrumental in India’s rise as a global economic powerhouse.
The right energy policy is not just about choosing the cheapest or most abundant energy source; it’s about making strategic decisions that align with a nation’s development goals and governance priorities.
Fossil fuels and nuclear energy, with their unparalleled cost-effectiveness and reliability, are essential for powering modern civilization.
By investing in these energy sources and addressing their challenges through innovation and policy, governments can ensure sustainable development, energy security, and effective governance.
The Author is the Founder and CEO of the Ashalumi Governance Network Limited.
