"Environmentalists say the war’s effects on oil and gas prices are an argument for countries to get off fossil fuels. But the reality is likely to be messier."
"The war in Iran is choking off oil and gas supplies and spiking energy prices across the globe. And for many environmentalists, that’s a powerful argument for countries to curb their use of fossil fuels and shift to wind, solar and other renewable sources.
But as the chaos forces nations to rethink their energy policies, the results could be messy — and cleaner options may not always be the winner.
Some countries in Europe and Asia may try to install more wind turbines, solar panels and batteries to buffer themselves against surges in the price of natural gas, as many did after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. If oil prices stay elevated, electric cars could become a more economical option for drivers from Brazil to the United States.
“This newest upheaval shows yet again that fossil fuel dependence leaves economies, businesses, markets and people at the mercy of each new conflict,” said Simon Stiell, the United Nations climate chief. Investing in renewable energy, he said, is “the obvious pathway to energy security.”"
Brad Plumer and Lisa Friedman report for the New York Times March 11, 2026.
SEE ALSO:
"Roots in ‘Mazut,’ an Unusually Dirty Fuel" (New York Times)
