As global leaders gear up for COP30 in Brazil, a new study from Siemens highlights a significant shift in priorities regarding energy strategies. The Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2025 reveals that national energy independence has overtaken the phase-out of fossil fuels as the primary concern for executives and policymakers, especially in Asia.
The research involving 1,400 senior executives and government representatives across 19 countries indicates that energy resilience has now become a top priority in infrastructure transition strategies, moving up from third place in 2023.
This shift is largely driven by rising geopolitical instability, which has intensified market and supply chain volatility.
According to Matthias Rebellius, managing board member of Siemens AG and CEO of Smart Infrastructure, the infrastructure transition is entering a new phase whereby national goals of energy security are overtaking global collaboration on decarbonization.
"As systems face mounting climate and energy disruptions, resilience is no longer optional. AI, technology, and digitalization are now critical to this shift.” Matthias Rebellius
In light of these findings, over 62% of respondents believe that future energy systems will increasingly rely on local or regional production rather than global trade. Key enablers of this transition include the integration of renewable energy sources, improved storage capabilities, and advanced grid systems.
Currently, 53% of respondents report that resilience is reaching maturity in their countries, while 52% express similar sentiments regarding energy independence.
However, the report also reveals a concerning trend: confidence in achieving climate targets is waning. Just 37% of executives now believe they will meet their 2030 decarbonization goals, a decline from 44% in 2023. Additionally, over half of global executives anticipate increased investment in fossil fuels in the coming years.
As nations recalibrate their strategies in preparation for COP30, the study serves as a wake-up call. Siemens warns that failing to incorporate resilience into energy planning could lead to both economic and environmental repercussions.
The importance of grid investment and digital innovation cannot be overstated, as these elements are essential for progressing towards climate commitments while enhancing energy security.
In this evolving landscape, digital technologies are becoming increasingly vital. The report indicates that digitalization is the second most important factor in accelerating the clean energy transition, after expanding energy storage.
Notably, 66% of respondents believe AI will significantly enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure, with 59% using AI to aid in the decarbonization of their operations.
As leaders in Asia prepare for the challenges of 2026, the emphasis on energy resilience and independence will be crucial for shaping sustainable futures.
