Transition to a New Geopolitics of Energy: The Lusophone World

Human evolution is inextricably linked to energy transitions. For centuries, these transitions have occurred gradually or rapidly, allowing the adoption of new energy sources like coal and oil. The current global warming scenario requires an accelerated transition to a sustainable model based on renewable energy sources. This chapter examines Portuguese-speaking countries in terms of energy “access and security” using the WEF Energy Transition Index, assessing not only how their energy system is performing, but also their potential to change the energy paradigm. We conclude that, despite their potential of their energy sources, the Portuguese-speaking countries, with the exception of Portugal and Brazil, are gradually moving toward the transition process. Having yet to overcome several internal challenges in their energy system in order for this potential to become a viable reality and to achieve security, reliability, and universal accessibility of energy for all (SDG 7).