BRICS calls for cooperation to ensure energy security, recognizes fossil fuels’ importance

BRICS leaders on Sept. 12 called for greater energy security through stable markets, diversified supplies and resilient infrastructure, while acknowledging that fossil fuels will continue to play an important role in the energy mix, particularly for emerging markets and developing economies, according to a joint declaration issued by India's foreign ministry.

The group also called for restraint and diplomacy amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East, warning that further instability could disrupt global trade, energy supplies and critical infrastructure, the statement said.

"We recognize that energy security is a crucial foundation for social and economic development, national security and the welfare of all nations," the declaration said.

"We acknowledge fossil fuels will still play an important role in the world's energy mix, particularly for emerging markets and developing economies, and we recognize the need to promote just, orderly, equitable and inclusive energy transitions and reduce GHG emissions in line with our climate goals," it added.

BRICS countries stressed the need to work together to maintain the smooth flow of global trade, supply chains and energy in accordance with international law.

Diversified energy mix

The declaration presented an expansive definition of energy security that goes beyond access to fuel. It includes secure transport routes, reliable power grids, protected pipelines and other critical infrastructure, as well as diversified technologies and supply chains resilient to geopolitical conflict, cyberattacks and economic disruption.

Rather than endorsing a single energy pathway, BRICS called for diversified energy mixes, saying the precise balance should reflect each country's circumstances and priorities.

"We underscore the importance of balanced and diversified energy mixes reflecting national circumstances and recognize that the widest variety of energy sources and technologies, including but not limited to renewable energy, bioenergy, fossil fuels, nuclear energy, hydropower, hydrogen, low-carbon technologies and energy storage technologies, play an important role in achieving the sustainable development goals and energy security," the declaration said.

The declaration also signaled closer cooperation on hydrogen, including efforts to develop interoperable standards and certification systems for zero- and low-emissions production. Critical minerals emerged as another major area of cooperation.

"We affirm the need to promote reliable, responsible, diversified, resilient, fair, sustainable, and just supply chains of critical minerals to guarantee benefit sharing, value addition and economic diversification in resource-rich countries, while fully preserving sovereign rights over their mineral resources, as well as their right to adopt, maintain and enforce measures necessary to pursue legitimate public policy objectives," the declaration said.

"We recognize the key role of critical minerals for the development of zero- and low-emission energy technologies, energy security, and resilience of energy supply chains," it added.