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Oil Crisis Accelerates Clean Energy Shift Amid Middle East Conflict

Financial Times Companies •
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The US-Israeli conflict with Iran has triggered a global energy crisis that may accelerate the transition to clean energy despite Donald Trump's opposition to renewables. Oil prices have surged to $104 per barrel, up from $72 before the February 28 conflict, as Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz. Liquefied natural gas prices have jumped 81 percent in the same period.

Energy market volatility has prompted governments worldwide to reconsider their dependence on imported fossil fuels. South Korean President Lee Jae-myung called for rapid renewable energy expansion, while southeast Asian economic ministers agreed to accelerate clean energy transitions at an Asean meeting. European leaders face pressure to defend ambitious clean energy goals as energy prices soar, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urging faster integration of low-carbon energy.

Clean energy stocks have outperformed the broader market during the conflict, with the S&P Global Clean Energy Transition Index rising 2.3 percent since February 27 while the MSCI World index declined 3.7 percent. However, the sector faces challenges including permitting delays and grid connection issues. UN climate chief Simon Stiell emphasized that renewable energy offers protection from future fossil fuel shocks, noting that 'sunlight doesn't depend on narrow and vulnerable shipping straits.' The strategic case for reducing oil and gas dependence has never been stronger.