The influence of economic and trade relations on politics is similar. In the context of global energy interconnection, as multinational power grid interconnections and electricity trade develop, the geopolitical structure of energy will also undergo a new round of major transformation. The global energy internet, as a typical embodiment of global power interconnection, presents a new blueprint for the future development of world energy. It reflects concepts such as sustainable development, the building of a shared future community, and win-win cooperation.
Transnational power grid interconnection and electricity trade are physical and economic manifestations of the global energy internet. Currently, Europe, North America, and the Russian-Baltic region have high levels of interconnection. After years of planning, the framework for cross-border electricity networks has taken shape, with high interoperability. In Central and South America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, regional grid interconnections have laid a preliminary foundation, with clear plans and some interconnected lines. In Northeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa, these projects are still in early stages, with ongoing negotiations and promotions.
Under the trend of expanding power grid interconnection, governments, enterprises, and regional organizations have initiated relevant planning studies, with some projects already implemented. The European Union aims to have at least 10% of national transmission capacity as transnational capacity by 2020, increasing to 15% by 2030. The U.S. has not yet formed a national electricity market, but continues to promote regional market coordination. China’s “One Belt, One Road†initiative includes energy interconnection projects, aiming to connect with neighboring countries within the next decade.
Global energy trade has developed several bulk commodity markets, while power trading remains in its early stages due to infrastructure and market limitations. In 2016, global cross-border electricity transactions reached 765 billion kWh, with Europe accounting for 480 billion kWh and North America for 92.9 billion kWh. Power trade involves energy security, making political feasibility a prerequisite for cross-border interconnection.
Geopolitics is the foundation for achieving power interconnection. Cross-border power resource allocation can reduce energy security investment, but also transfer it to other countries. Electricity supply and demand must be balanced in real time, making strategic reserves less effective. Thus, multinational power interconnection requires high mutual trust, especially as electricity trade becomes a larger share of national generation.
Current interconnection projects often overlap with geopolitical relations. Governments play an active role in promoting them, though not all projects are driven by intergovernmental cooperation. Economic and trade cooperation between countries has gradually led to power interconnection, such as the EU’s unified electricity market and U.S.-Canada power trade based on friendly relations. Regional projects, like those in the Greater Mekong Subregion, are promoted under economic integration frameworks.
Power interconnection and trade are often first studied at the economic level before gaining political support. For example, the Desert Solar Energy Project and the Northeast Asian grid project were initially proposed by companies and research institutes, followed by government involvement.
Recently, the Northeast Asia super grid plan was supported by Korea Electric Power Corporation. The plan involves building wind farms in Mongolia and linking them to multiple countries using advanced transmission technologies. This initiative, first proposed by Softbank CEO Masayoshi Son after the Fukushima disaster, has now entered formal discussions among key stakeholders.
Transnational power trade can reshape geopolitics by promoting regional cooperation, encouraging sustainable energy development, and fostering consensus on climate action. It also supports North-South cooperation, helping developing countries leverage their resources for economic growth. Through shared benefits and revenue mechanisms, both developed and developing nations can achieve mutual gains, promoting green and low-carbon development.
In conclusion, as global energy interconnection expands, the geopolitical landscape will see significant changes. Energy conflicts will decrease, land-based powers will gain more influence, and global energy governance will become more democratic. Cooperation will become the norm, paving the way for a more harmonious and interconnected world.
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