Shale gas and renewables: Divergence or win-win for transatlantic energy cooperation?

Abstract

The recent emphasis in Europe on sustainable energy differs from the North American emphasis on fossil fuels as secure and low-cost energy source. Priorities and policies to meet energy security, sustainability and competitiveness goals started to diverge between the transatlantic partners. New alliances formed to address changing market realities, climate change concerns and access to energy in poorer countries. Shale gas and renewables emerged as potential game changers. Instead of driving the transatlantic energy partnership apart, the pursuit of different alliances, policies and technologies explores complementary pathways to meet common goals. The sustained, public and private commitment in the USA to develop and scale up shale gas technology and Europe's leadership in renewable market transformation provide win-win outcomes for transatlantic as well as global energy cooperation. © 2012 Board of Transatlantic Studies.