Dr. Saman Shali

In 2023, the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held at Expo City, Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The theme of the conference was Transitioning to Clean Energy. Therefore, if countries aim for their economic and political independence, in that case, they must turn to renewable energy because it does not need imported oil, gas, and coal, which leads to subjecting the state to the economic and political goals of the exporting country.

Here are some sources of renewable energy:

1. Solar Energy

2. Wind Energy

3. Hydropower Energy

4. Organic materials (Biomass)

5. Geothermal Energy

Advantages of the renewable Energy:

1. Low cost: Renewable energy is witnessing a continuous decline in costs despite the progress made in its development.

2. Labor: Renewable energy requires more labor than energy sources that rely on technology and reduce unemployment.

3. Improving the environment: Renewable energy does not emit polluting gases into space, nor does it pollute groundwater

The Kurdistan Region is at a critical juncture in its quest for political and economic independence. Kurdistan's quest for sovereignty lies in a geopolitically complex region with varying degrees of autonomy and external dependence, and it is closely linked to its energy situation. This article examines how introducing renewable energy can serve as a basis for promoting political autonomy and economic independence in the Kurdistan Region.

Political Independence: Renewable energy allows Kurdistan to assert greater political independence by reducing reliance on external energy sources. Historically, the region has faced challenges associated with energy dependence on neighboring countries, which can expose it to geopolitical pressures and vulnerabilities. Embracing renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power allows Kurdistan to diversify its energy mix and bolster energy security.

Moreover, investing in domestic renewable energy infrastructure empowers Kurdistan to assert greater control over its energy destiny. For instance, by harnessing the region's abundant solar resources, Kurdistan can reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels and mitigate the risks associated with energy transit routes and geopolitical tensions. This shift towards renewable energy enhances Kurdistan's sovereignty and resilience in the face of external pressures.

Furthermore, the decentralized nature of renewable energy infrastructure empowers communities and regions, reducing centralized control over energy production. Localized renewable energy projects promote grassroots involvement and decision-making, enhancing democratic processes and fostering a sense of ownership among citizens. Political independence thus emerges at the national level and within local communities, empowering them to shape their energy future.

Economic Independence: Renewable energy holds the potential to catalyze economic independence for the Kurdistan Region through various avenues. Firstly, developing renewable energy infrastructure creates local employment opportunities across the value chain, from manufacturing and installation to maintenance and operation. This workforce localization reduces dependency on external labor markets and stimulates economic growth within Kurdistan.

Furthermore, renewable energy projects can attract foreign investment and technological expertise, facilitating knowledge transfer and capacity building within the region. By leveraging its renewable energy potential, Kurdistan can position itself as an attractive destination for green investments, thereby diversifying its economy and reducing reliance on traditional sectors.

Additionally, renewable energy can enhance energy affordability and stability, thus driving down costs for businesses and households. By reducing energy expenditures and promoting energy efficiency measures, Kurdistan can allocate resources towards priority areas such as infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, fostering long-term economic sustainability and self-reliance. This sovereignty ensures that infrastructure is maintained and that industry, agriculture, and tourism continue to thrive towards economic independence.

Renewable energy is a catalyst for advancing political and economic independence within the Kurdistan Region. By embracing renewable energy sources, Kurdistan can assert greater control over its energy destiny, mitigate geopolitical risks, and stimulate local economic development. As Kurdistan navigates its path toward sovereignty, adopting renewable energy emerges as a strategic imperative for securing political autonomy and economic self-reliance in a rapidly evolving global landscape. The transition to renewable energy is not merely a shift in energy production but a transformation toward greater autonomy, empowerment, and sustainability. As the Kurdistan Region navigates the complexities of the 21st century, embracing renewable energy is an environmental and strategic imperative for securing political and economic independence.

Saman Shali has a Ph.D. in Science (1981) from the University of Sussex. Dr. Shali worked as an Assistant Researcher and Assistant Professor at the University of Sussex, King Saud University, and Pennsylvania State University. He is also a senior fellow at the Mediterranean Institute for Regional Studies.