Germany redefines its energy security in the face of risks from U.S. dependence

Europe’s largest economy faces a crucial dilemma: securing its energy sources without becoming trapped in a single geopolitical dependency. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has taken action, directing efforts toward the Middle East to diversify liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies and reduce vulnerability to potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy. Germany aims to transform its energy model in a context where geopolitical pressures could threaten its economic stability.

Scholz deploys energy diplomacy in the world’s most strategic region

Germany’s strategy takes shape through a high-level diplomatic tour. The chancellor, accompanied by a delegation of German business leaders, will travel to Riyadh to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, considered the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia. Afterwards, he will continue to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates before returning to Berlin. This sequence of meetings is no coincidence: it represents Germany’s effort to establish new energy alliances that strengthen its independence from Washington.

Experts warn about geopolitical vulnerability

Researchers at the Helmholtz Center in Berlin warn about systemic risks of maintaining excessive dependence on the United States. Susanne Nies, an energy specialist at the institution, emphasizes how over-reliance can become a tool of geopolitical blackmail, especially considering recent authoritarian shifts in U.S. policy. Meanwhile, Claudia Kemfert, head of the Department of Energy, Transport, and Environment at the German Institute for Economic Research, insists that price vulnerability and geopolitical exposure create new risks for the country’s macroeconomic stability.

Alternatives Germany should consider

In light of this situation, experts propose multiple strategies for Germany to reduce its exposure to U.S. LNG. One approach is to increase gas supplies via pipelines from Norway, a closer European partner. Another option involves diversifying LNG sources through alternative suppliers such as Canada and Australia. However, Kemfert emphasizes a long-term vision: Germany should not only change suppliers but fundamentally transform its energy matrix, reducing overall dependence on fossil fuels to build a truly sustainable and resilient economy.