Energy security means a country has access to affordable and reliable sources of energy. In IB ESS, it concerns whether energy supplies can consistently meet society’s demand without unacceptable disruption or cost.
This concept is part of Subtopic 7.2: Energy sources: uses and management and is HL-only content in the syllabus for first assessment 2026.
How Energy Security Works
Energy security depends on the relationship between energy supply, demand and vulnerability to disruption. A country with diverse domestic energy sources, effective storage and dependable infrastructure generally has greater energy security than one relying heavily on a single imported fuel.
| Determinant | Effect on energy security |
|---|---|
| Availability | Sufficient energy resources or imports allow demand to be met. |
| Affordability | Households, businesses and governments must be able to pay for energy. |
| Reliability | Electricity grids and fuel supplies must operate consistently. |
| Diversity | Using several energy sources and suppliers reduces dependence on one source. |
| Domestic production | Locally produced energy reduces exposure to foreign supply disruptions. |
| Storage and infrastructure | Batteries, fuel reserves, pipelines and reliable grids help balance supply and demand. |
| Geopolitical stability | Conflict, sanctions or trade disputes can interrupt imported energy supplies. |
For example, Russia’s reduction of natural-gas supplies to European countries following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine exposed the risks of dependence on one major supplier. European states responded by diversifying gas imports, expanding renewable energy and reducing demand.
A common misconception is that renewable energy automatically guarantees energy security. Wind and solar power reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, but their intermittency may require storage, interconnected grids or backup generation. Energy security is also not identical to sustainability: a country may have secure supplies of coal while causing substantial environmental damage.
Exam Technique
For a definition question, state both affordable and reliable access. For an “evaluate” question, balance benefits against limitations, use a named example, consider environmental and social impacts such as energy poverty, and finish with a supported conclusion.
