Energy security is being fundamentally redefined. The world is moving from an energy system centered on hydrocarbons to one increasingly powered by electricity. Recent geopolitical and geoeconomic developments around the world have only provided further impetus to the push for clean electrification. In this new reality, electricity is no longer simply an energy issue. It has become a matter of economic resilience, strategic competitiveness, and national security. 

The rapid growth of electrification across industry, transport and buildings, as well as AI data centers, combined with greater renewable integration, is placing unprecedented demands on power systems. At the same time, societies are becoming more dependent on uninterrupted electricity supplies. 

The power grid is a key enabler of electrification and its absence a major bottleneck. Unlike fossil fuels, electricity must be balanced instantaneously across increasingly complex systems. This requires grids that can integrate large volumes of variable renewable generation while managing less predictable demand and remaining resilient to physical, cyber, and geopolitical threats. As electrification accelerates, grids are emerging as critical strategic infrastructure, underpinning economic competitiveness, essential public services, and societal stability. 

As the center of gravity of energy security shifts from molecules to electrons, this session will explore how leaders can strengthen electricity security in an era of rising demand and increasing uncertainty. The discussion will highlight how secure electricity systems can support not only the clean energy transition, but also economic prosperity, and national security.

Moderator:

• Kristian Ruby, Secretary General, Eurelectric 
  
  

Speakers and panelists: 

• Laura Cozzi, Director of Sustainability, Technology & Outlooks, IEA
• Rob McDonald, Managing Director, SSEN Transmission
• Albert Cheung, CEO, BloombergNEF
• Maxine Ghavi, EVP and Head of Europe Region, Hitachi Energy