energy security

Bilingual

Country went 100% electric vehicles overnight with a drastic approach
2 months ago
- Laos banned imports of new gas and diesel passenger cars from June 1, 2026, making almost all new imports electric.
- The ban is driven by economic reasons: Laos relies on hydropower exports and imports all its vehicle fuel, using scarce foreign currency.
- EVs are incentivized with tax exemptions and registration fee cuts, while transport companies must have at least 10% electric fleets by 2026.
- Chinese automakers and Vietnam's VinFast are filling the gap left by combustion vehicles.
- The ban has exemptions for public transport, construction, and specialized vehicles, reflecting charging and income limitations.
- Global EV sales hit 2 million in June, and Southeast Asian nations see electrification as energy security.
- The policy is effective but depends on charging infrastructure and affordable EVs to sustain it.
- Laos' approach is a model for oil-importing countries with cheap domestic power.
African nations eye nuclear for energy security
2 months ago
- Nuclear power is seen as key to Africa's energy security, especially after the Iran war disrupted fuel imports via the Strait of Hormuz.
- African nations face challenges in developing atomic energy, including financing, grid capacity, and a critical need for workforce training and safety regulators.
- Currently, South Africa operates the continent's only reactors; Egypt is building four, and eight other countries have plans for new plants.
- About 600 million Africans lack electricity; expanding nuclear access could help close the gap and power industrialization, but barriers like cost and long lead times remain.
- The World Bank lifted its ban on nuclear funding, and China and Russia are the main funders, giving them geopolitical leverage over the US.
- Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) may be better suited for African countries due to grid size and potential coupling with industries like mining.
- Africa's reliance on imported oil was exposed by the Iran war; nuclear energy could reduce exposure to price volatility and supply risks.
- South Africa's nuclear plans face controversy and legal challenges, requiring the lure back of skilled engineers from abroad, such as those in the UAE.
- Kenya also faces local community resistance to its nuclear power projects.
Iran asked Yemen's Houthi movement to stand ready to close the Red Sea oil route
2 months ago
- Iran reportedly asked Yemen's Houthi movement to prepare to close the Red Sea oil route if the U.S. strikes Iranian power infrastructure.
- Three sources told Reuters this action could pose a new threat to global energy supplies.
- The information was shared by Reuters, indicating concerns over potential escalation in the region.

energy security

Country went 100% electric vehicles overnight with a drastic approach

African nations eye nuclear for energy security

Iran asked Yemen's Houthi movement to stand ready to close the Red Sea oil route