The Largest Oil Disruption In History Is Accelerating The Energy Transition

The global energy system is facing an unprecedented shock.

With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed for over a month, a route responsible for around 20% of global oil and gas supply has been disrupted, exceeding the scale of the 1970s oil crises. Yet the impact today looks different.

A more diversified energy mix, driven by the growth of renewables, is helping cushion the blow. Countries with strong clean energy capacity, from China to Spain, are proving more resilient to volatility and price shocks.

This moment is reinforcing a critical shift: energy security is no longer just about supply, but about independence.

Fossil fuel systems remain concentrated and geopolitically exposed, reliant on key chokepoints. In contrast, renewables like wind, solar, and nuclear can be developed domestically, offering greater stability and control.

What was once seen primarily as a climate issue is now an economic and strategic priority — focused on resilience, price stability, and long-term security.

While rising prices will challenge import-dependent economies, this disruption may accelerate the transition. With renewables already cost-competitive, their role in strengthening energy security has never been clearer.

Because energy that cannot be embargoed or weaponised is energy that builds resilience.

The question is no longer whether the transition will happen, but how quickly it will be realised.

To explore how your organisation can strengthen energy resilience and accelerate the transition, get in touch with us at hello@gleg.co.uk.