Riassunto
To cite: Raffaele Marchetti, Manfredi Valeriani, Center for International Strategic Studies CISS Luiss
Carlo Napoli, Enel Foundation
The energy transition, beyond its environmental dimension, carries profound geopolitical and strategic implications. It is redefining global power dynamics by creating new dependencies on clean technologies and critical materials such as lithium and rare earth elements, largely controlled by China. This shift moves the center of economic power and introduces new vulnerabilities, particularly for the West.
Geopolitical tensions, such as the war in Ukraine, are accelerating this shift and prompting efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains, as demonstrated by initiatives like RePowerEU and the Inflation Reduction Act. Major global players (China, Russia, the US, and the EU) are pursuing divergent strategies, shaped by their resources, technological capabilities, and timelines. Key risks include new forms of dependency, intensified competition among regional blocs, and global fragmentation.
Addressing these challenges requires integrated strategies that balance sustainability, security, and innovation. Investment in research, supply chain diversification, and international cooperation will be crucial to ensuring a secure, stable, and competitive transition—where the private sector will also play a pivotal role.
This study explores the many dimensions of these challenges in depth.
