The Future of Sustainable and Secure Energy — A Panel at the Reimagining Entrepreneurship Conference in Copenhagen
Panelists:
Chang-Chuan Chan, Member of the Board, CAPRI; Distinguished Professor, Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University
Michael Lenox, University Professor, Tayloe Murphy Professor of Business Administration, University of Virginia
Aisma Vitina, Head of APRA Secretariat at the Danish Energy Agency
Moderator: Margaret Foster Riley, Professor, University of Virginia, Public Policy, Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy
This panel examined the evolving relationship between energy security, climate goals, and global political shifts. The speakers emphasized that energy transition strategies must be grounded in realism, especially in regions like the Global South and East Asia, where access and affordability remain central concerns. Although many countries commit to net-zero targets, these ambitions are tempered by geopolitical volatility, uneven investment capacity, and societal resistance to change. Speakers noted that energy decisions today must account not only for emissions but also for economic resilience and national security. China, for example, continues to expand both renewable and coal energy capacity. Japan is restarting nuclear plants. In contrast, Europe has made strong green commitments but remains dependent on external energy supplies and vulnerable to price fluctuations.
Taiwan’s specific constraints as a resource-poor island economy were also discussed. The panelists highlighted the complex interplay between energy, public health, and public perception. While Taiwan has invested in renewables, its progress is hampered by political polarization, slow permitting, and a lack of public trust, particularly on issues like nuclear energy. Social dialogue and cross-sector collaboration were seen as essential for building resilience and legitimacy.
Speakers also warned against the rise of techno-nationalism in clean energy supply chains. Efforts to decouple from China may make strategic sense in some areas; however, they risk undermining collective climate action and derailing energy transition pathways that rely on cross-border cooperation. Rather than full decoupling, the panelists urged a nuanced approach that preserves strategic autonomy while enabling shared innovation and infrastructure. The conversation underscored that energy transition is no longer just a climate issue but is tied to industrial strategy, global equity, and democratic governance. Bridging the gap between advanced and developing economies, and between energy producers and consumers, will be crucial for a sustainable and secure energy future.
Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Time: 9:00–10:30 a.m.
Location: The Carlsberg Akademi, Copenhagen
