What’s happening
Israel, often celebrated for its prowess in cybersecurity, biotechnology, and semiconductors, faces a pivotal strategic decision. Instead of embroilment in the intensely competitive race to become a leader in artificial intelligence (AI), the country should channel its resources into emerging as a key player in the global energy sector.Power Energy Reservoirsare already showcasing rising demand and offer immense opportunities for Israel to harness.
Why it matters
The explosion in demand for energy — particularly to support AI infrastructures — underlines an underappreciated strategic opportunity for Israel. As AI systems and other tech utilities continue to demand more power, establishing solid and reliable energy sources will make any nation indispensable on the world stage. Israel’s unique geographical location, connecting energy suppliers of the Gulf and the energy-hungry markets of Europe, propels it to a prime position to serve as a safer, strategically dependable energy corridor.
By the numbers
The demands of new technologies like AI and cryptocurrency are globalizing energy consumption, predicted to potentially soar over 1,000 terawatt-hours by 2026. As a budding energy hub, Israel is strategically placed to provide solutions, especially amidst global uncertainties exacerbated by geopolitical tensions.
Zoom in
With energy routes often at political risk — the Suez Canal highlights vulnerabilities in global supply chains — Israel stands to provide stable alternatives with infrastructure projects connecting the Gulf and Europe through its own territory. Investing in pipelines and rail networks spanning from Eilat to Haifa could buffer volatile international routes, easing transit from Gulf producers to European consumers.
Resource potential
Israel isn’t restricted to only geographical advantages. Technological advancements in nuclear energy and efficient solar projects in the Negev offer direct developmental advances in brown, white, and green energy sectors. Solar leader SolarEdge represents how Israel harnesses existing talent and technology to serve increasing power demands sustainably.
The bottom line
If Israel shifts focus toward becoming a comprehensive energy hub, it will not just secure energy independence and economic strength but become a linchpin of regional security. By standing as a critical partner to its neighbors and to global powers, Israel fortifies a diplomatic safeguard inherently more resilient than reliance on volatile AI markets. Secure energy supplies promise economic stability and national safety, positioning Israel as both a regional affirmance and a vital global energy axis.
This story was first published on jpost.com.