Conflict in Middle East Correlates with Increased Clean Energy Adoption

Why it matters locally: Given Hawaii's high dependence on imported fossil fuels for energy generation and its ambitious clean energy goals, the accelerated global shift towards electric vehicles, solar power, and battery technologies driven by geopolitical events could influence the pace and cost of the state's energy transition.

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Recent military actions in the Middle East have highlighted the vulnerabilities associated with reliance on fossil fuels. Analysts suggest these events accelerate the international adoption of electric vehicles, solar power, and battery technologies. Following the renewal of conflict, the Philippines significantly increased its import of solar panels. From February to May, the country imported over $400 million worth of panels.