Global experts examine how energy systems can withstand era of multiple risks

Global experts gathered in Doha to examine how energy systems can withstand multiple risks, such as cyberattacks, extreme weather, geopolitical conflicts, shipping disruptions, and fragile supply chains. The Al-Attiyah Foundation's third CEO Roundtable focused on building resilient energy systems beyond mere availability of energy resources.

Dr Saud bin Abdullah al-Attiyah, chairman of the foundation, emphasized that energy security now requires managing interconnected geopolitical, technological, environmental, and commercial risks. The discussion, under the Chatham House Rule, featured insights from Michael Williamson, Anne-Sophie Corbeau, Jim Krane, and Jan-Eric Fahnrich.

Participants stressed the need to expand energy security definitions to include grid, pipeline, terminal, and digital resilience, as well as access to critical minerals and services. They highlighted the compounded risks arising from interconnected crises, like how shipping route changes can result from geopolitical tensions, insurance costs rise, and cyber threats escalate.

Extreme weather events compounded these issues by damaging infrastructure and surging electricity demand. Cybersecurity was a key concern, as more connected systems made energy companies vulnerable to cascading failures from digital breakdowns. The roundtable also covered climate change impacts, stressing the importance of climate resilience in infrastructure planning and response.

The Al-Attiyah Foundation continues facilitating dialogue to develop adaptable, reliable, and sustainable energy systems.