Dutch Defence Energy Plan Highlights Security Risks of EU Decarbonisation

The Netherlands’ defence ministry has published an Energy Security Roadmap that treats uninterrupted, affordable energy as a cornerstone of military effectiveness in both peace and war. Emphasising NATO’s single-fuel doctrine, the plan notes that more than 95% of Dutch aircraft, ships and vehicles still depend on liquid hydrocarbons such as kerosene. While acknowledging EU climate ambitions, the roadmap argues that the continent’s focus on wind and solar—currently supplying just over 3% of global energy—cannot meet the demand for liquid fuels.

It warns that EU-driven decarbonisation raises energy prices, erodes industrial competitiveness and could impair the production of steel, chemicals and other materials essential for weapons systems. The paper cites China’s dual strategy of expanding renewables while adding coal capacity as a contrast to Europe’s approach. Ultimately, the analysis urges U.S. decision-makers to view EU energy policy as a factor in the West’s overall defence posture.