Mon, Sep 14, 2020
Innovation in Nuclear Energy Technologies: Implications for US National Defense
The US Department of Defense (DOD) has the potential to play a significant role bringing advanced reactor technology to demonstration and, ultimately, commercialization. Possible US military applications of advanced reactors—especially micro nuclear reactors (MNRs)—include deployment to remote bases that are challenging to supply with fuel; power systems for directed-energy weapons; and nuclear energy systems for space flight and off-world bases. This issue brief explores the challenges and opportunities inherent in DOD’s procurement of MNRs.
In-Depth Research & Reports by Dr. Robert F. Ichord, Jr. and Dr. Jennifer T. Gordon
Mon, Aug 17, 2020
What’s at stake for energy in the 2020 election: An update
In the seven months since the publication of the Atlantic Council’s issue brief, “Election 2020: What’s At Stake For Energy,” the social and political landscape of the United States can hardly have changed more dramatically. This issue brief updates the Atlantic Council’s prior analysis and considers the new context surrounding a Trump re-election scenario and a Biden election, and the consequences for the energy sector.
In-Depth Research & Reports by David Goldwyn and Andrea Clabough
Tue, May 26, 2020
European energy security and the critical role of transatlantic energy cooperation
Transatlantic cooperation is essential to European energy security, which is and should remain a key national security priority for the United States. European energy security is crucial for the maintenance of a strong European economy and for European political stability, both of which are in the best interests of the United States. This report recommends that the United States and the EU focus their energy cooperation in several areas that will benefit the EU’s efforts to meet climate targets and that, at the same time, will also bolster energy security.
Report by Richard L. Morningstar, András Simonyi, Olga Khakova, Jennifer T. Gordon
Sat, May 16, 2020
Downstream oil theft: Countermeasures and good practices
Downstream oil theft has become a global problem. Since most of the world’s energy systems still rely on oil, fuel smugglers are nearly always able to find markets for their goods. Moreover, as oil is not inherently illegal, it is generally an easy product to move, buy, and sell. Profits from oil theft are frequently used to fund terrorism and other illegal activities.
Report by Dr. David Soud with contributing authors Dr. Ian Ralby and Rohini Ralby
Thu, Apr 30, 2020
Sustainable aviation fuel policy in the United States: A pragmatic way forward
Aviation’s reliance on fossil fuels, its expected future growth rates, and the service lifespan of aircraft make it a difficult section of the transportation sector to decarbonize.
Report by Fred Ghatala
Fri, Mar 6, 2020
A new energy strategy for the Western Hemisphere
The Western Hemisphere is full of potential and we have the opportunity to galvanize it into an energy powerhouse. This new US energy strategy for the Western Hemisphere will help raise the global competitiveness of the hemisphere, advance its shared prosperity, and improve national and energy security as a result.
Report by David L. Goldwyn
Sun, Jan 12, 2020
Election 2020: What’s at stake for energy policy?
As the US presidential election in November 2020 draws nearer, the energy policy platforms—including domestic energy, climate change, foreign, and trade policies—from the Democratic candidates, as well as the energy policies of a potential second Trump Administration, have become increasingly clear. The competing visions of a Republican and a Democratic administration could hardly be more disparate, and industry and external stakeholders should prepare for a volatile outlook regardless of the outcome in November 2020—what are the salient energy policies under the two scenarios and how will they address the deep and entrenched energy challenges that face the United States?
Issue Brief by David L. Goldwyn and Andrea Clabough
Thu, Jan 9, 2020
International grid integration: Efficiencies, vulnerabilities, and strategic implications in Asia
In order to meet growing global demand for electricity, and in response to an increase in renewables, power networks and markets are evolving and becoming increasingly interconnected. South and Southeast Asia have already had some success with interconnections, and China’s vision and Belt and Road Initiative loom large in the region, but there are geopolitical concerns to contend with. Could a US model manage these concerns? What is the state of regional power markets in Asia and investment in regional grid infrastructure, and what responses are we already seeing to emerging trends?
Report by Phillip Cornell
Thu, Jan 9, 2020
Energy sector diversification: Meeting demographic challenges in the MENA region
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is projected to experience significant demographic growth by 2050, growth which will have to be met with commensurate economic expansion and job opportunities, or the region will risk an increase in political instability. To meet this challenge, countries in the region must diversify their economies beyond the energy sector and expand their energy sector beyond hydrocarbons. What are the key trends that MENA countries will have to contend with, what is already being done, and what further steps should be taken?
Report by Bina Hussein
Thu, Jan 9, 2020
Transforming the power sector in developing countries: Geopolitics, poverty, and climate change in Bangladesh
As the South and Southeast Asian region faces increasing energy demand due to both population and economic growth, countries like Bangladesh must meet that demand while facing and overcoming critical environmental and energy security challenges. How is Bangladesh seeking to diversify its energy mix and establish more local and decarbonized power systems, and what are key opportunities for future government and foreign investment?
Issue Brief by Robert F. Ichord, Jr.