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IEA calls for urgent energy-saving measures amid crisis
Governments worldwide are being pressed to lower speed limits and promote remote work as energy prices surge due to disruptions in the Gulf, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned on Friday.
Historic energy security threat declared
IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol described the current situation as "the greatest global energy security threat in history," urging leaders to take a more assertive stance on energy conservation. While acknowledging the political challenges, Birol noted that rising costs provide a strong incentive for public cooperation.
"The world has not yet fully grasped the depth of this crisis. It surpasses the 1970s oil shocks and even the gas price surge following Russia's invasion of Ukraine," Birol told the BBC.
Asian nations lead with consumption curbs
Several countries in Asia have already implemented restrictions. Bangladesh and Thailand have set minimum temperatures for air conditioning-25°C and 26°C, respectively. Pakistan and the Philippines have adopted a four-day workweek for public employees, while others have shortened school hours and limited official air travel.
IEA's ten-point plan for governments and businesses
The agency's recommendations span transportation, household energy use, and workplace practices. Key proposals include:
- Reducing speed limits to cut fuel consumption
- Expanding remote work to minimize commuting
- Prioritizing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) for essential uses like cooking by shifting biofuel-powered vehicles to gas
These measures follow the IEA's recent decision to release 400 million barrels of oil-20% of its emergency reserves-to stabilize markets. Birol hinted at further releases if economic pressures persist, confirming ongoing discussions with global leaders.
Long-term solutions and lingering risks
Birol predicted a surge in renewable energy, battery technology, and nuclear power investments, mirroring responses to past crises. In the 1970s, efficiency gains halved oil use per 100 kilometers driven, and a similar transformation is expected now.
However, the immediate focus remains on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route. Even if access is restored, Birol warned that damaged Gulf infrastructure-refineries, pipelines, and oil fields-would take "months and months" to recover, prolonging market instability.
What's next
The IEA will continue monitoring global energy flows and may propose additional measures if shortages worsen. Member countries, including the U.S., U.K., and Japan, are expected to weigh the recommendations in the coming weeks.
