The global energy landscape is fragmenting into new alliances and blocs, driven by resource access, technological innovation, and the accelerating demands of AI. This is the theme of the latest paper in J.P. Morgan’s “Climate Intuition” series: Power Rewired—The New Map of Energy and Geopolitics, which highlights the emergence of a “New Energy Security Age” where energy systems, critical minerals and technology are central to national power, economic competitiveness and investment strategy.
Navigating the risks and opportunities of energy security
For investors, the shifting energy supply and demand dynamics highlighted in the paper represent significant risks, but also opportunities. The research suggests that particular attention should be given to infrastructure, supply chains and policy risks in the following areas:
- Critical minerals and supply chains: Control over critical minerals, such as lithium, cobalt and nickel is now a major source of geopolitical leverage. Export restrictions, domestic processing mandates, and supply chain weaponization are reshaping trade and investment risks. For example, the US government has recently taken an equity warrant stake in Lithium Americas, underscoring the national security interest in supporting the domestic production of lithium. These developments have direct implications for the energy transition, particularly in Europe, where lithium, cobalt, and nickel are essential for scaling battery technologies, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage.
- Grid diplomacy and infrastructure: Cross-border energy grids and infrastructure projects are creating new opportunities for regional cooperation, but also shared vulnerabilities (cyber, regulatory, physical). Investment in resilient, diversified energy infrastructure is increasingly strategic.
- AI-driven power demand: The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers is driving unprecedented electricity demand, making stable power supply and grid modernization urgent investment themes.
- Innovation and technology leadership: Countries are racing to dominate strategic technologies (batteries, advanced nuclear, renewables). Research and development, patents, and commercialization trends are shifting the competitive landscape for energy and climate tech.
- Policy and regulatory shifts: Rapid changes in energy policy (for example, U.S. offshore wind, European Union liquefied natural gas imports, India’s renewables push) can create both risks and opportunities for capital deployment, especially in sectors exposed to government intervention or trade negotiations.
Solutions targeted on resilience and growth
At J.P. Morgan Asset Management, our targeted sustainable investment solutions are positioned to take account of the rapid changes in the energy landscape outlined in Power Rewired, so that investors can target long-term resilience and growth. To illustrate, we look at how two of our strategies—Europe Sustainable Equity and Climate Change Solutions—are positioned to address increased resource competition, technological innovation and other key investment themes raised by the energy transition.
J.P. Morgan Europe Sustainable Equity strategy: In a world where the supply of critical minerals is becoming ever more important for energy security, the mining sector may provide attractive long-term investment opportunities. Quite simply, without mining companies and the metals they produce, there can be no clean energy transition. While mining companies raise concerns due to the potentially negative environmental and social impact of their operations, we recognise the progress that some are making in terms of sustainability. The strategy’s portfolio managers utilise a proprietary framework for evaluating companies that are mining for critical energy transition minerals, and only companies that meet strict environmental and social standards are included in the portfolio. Further, we view regular engagement with company management as a key to improving our analysis and managing risk.
“Our Europe Sustainable Equity strategy is built on a rigorous framework that prioritises companies demonstrating strong environmental and social standards, as well as a commitment to ongoing engagement and improvement. By only considering mining companies that demonstrate progress on sustainability, our goal is to thoughtfully align with the evolving needs of the clean energy transition, while seeking to create long-term value for our clients.”
Alexandra Sentuc - Portfolio Manager, International Equity Group
J.P. Morgan Climate Change Solutions strategy: The key theme of the report, the growing importance of energy security, is central to our approach. We actively seek investments in companies and projects that are enabling the global transition to more resilient, secure and cleaner energy systems, such as renewable power, advanced grid infrastructure, and sustainable supply chains. We also focus on businesses driving technological innovation in areas such as energy storage, electrification and efficiency, which are increasingly vital as energy demand rises from AI and digital infrastructure. By integrating these themes, our strategy aims to capture long-term growth opportunities while managing risks associated with policy changes, resource access, and evolving global developments.
“Ultimately, the report reinforces our commitment to building diversified, forward-looking portfolios that take advantage of opportunities in businesses able to develop, deliver and scale solutions, and create resilient financial returns.”
Fred Barasi - Portfolio Manager / Equity Analyst, International Equity Group
As energy resiliency and self-sufficiency become increasingly central to nations’ strategic geopolitical positioning, the resulting shifts in energy supply and demand dynamics present both key risks and new opportunities. By understanding these changes and allocating accordingly, investors can position themselves for long-term growth in the new energy security age.