As we navigate the complexities of energy policy, it’s essential to recognize the critical role that national leaders play in shaping the future of their nations. By embracing their newfound freedom to set energy policy, developing nations can break free from the shackles of climate activism that have held them back for far too long.
Recently, U.S. President Donald J. Trump took a bold step towards rational energy policy by signing an executive order titled “Protecting American Energy from State Overreach.” This declaration serves as a clarion call to nations worldwide, urging them to take action against the obstructionism that cripples energy projects and impedes economic development.
Challenges in Developing Countries
- Stalled or abandoned fossil fuel projects due to climate activism
- Grassroots movements bankrolled by foreign NGOs and supported by sympathetic local governments
- Reliable electricity supply for millions of people in the Global South
These challenges are evident in stalled or abandoned fossil fuel projects across continents. However, these efforts often ignore the human toll of energy poverty: children studying by candlelight, hospitals without power, and economies stunted by unreliable grids. The developing world must now take advantage of their newfound freedom to set energy policy.
Funding and Motives Behind Climate Activism
In India, for example, Amsterdam-headquartered Greenpeace International has undertaken protests of power generated by fossil fuels and nuclear reactors and of coal and aluminum mining. However, the Indian people must understand that half of the country suffers from unreliable electricity supplies that fail regularly at times of peak demand. In one recent week, this writer experienced 2-3 electricity blackouts every day.
It’s crucial for developing nations to investigate the funding and motives behind climate activism. Who bankrolls these NGOs? Are their campaigns aligned with national interests, or do they serve foreign agendas? The answer to these questions can help nations make informed decisions about their energy policies.
Asserting Authority over Energy Policy
African nations rich in energy resources must assert their authority over energy policy, curbing local states or municipalities that align with crusades against fossil fuels. Many cities across the developing world have designated themselves as Net-Zero entities under an initiative of the World Economic Forum.
It is exasperating to see cities, still struggling to provide basic services for the health and safety of their citizens, are willing to prioritize foolish opposition to rational energy development. It is even more weird that municipal leaders would align with foreign organizations like the World Economic Forum and United Nations in opposition to their own national interests.
Legal Mechanisms to Deter Activism
Legal mechanisms should be used to deter frivolous lawsuits and protests. African nations rich in energy resources could adopt statutes penalizing activism that delays critical infrastructure without evidence of harm, mirroring the U.S. Attorney General’s mandate to challenge unconstitutional state and local laws.
Such measures would shift the burden onto activists to justify their claims, rather than paralyzing projects by default. Energy security is national security, and no ideology should usurp that.
A Call to Action
National leaders must dismantle the puppet masters – and puppets – behind efforts to stymie sensible energy use and clear a path for energy abundance and eradication of poverty.
