Cleaning Up: Leadership in an Age of Climate Change Trump, Venezuela & The Future Of Clean Energy | Ep239: Michael Liebreich & Bryony Worthington
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Jan 7, 2026 The discussion tackles the shifting dynamics between oil, geopolitics, and clean energy. Experts explore the U.S. approach towards Venezuelan oil under new realities. An analysis of the stable $60 oil price amid global conflicts raises eyebrows. There's a debate on whether oil's significance is fading as electrification rises. They also delve into Europe's energy challenges post-Russian gas shocks and explore innovations in battery technology and electrification, underscoring the critical transition toward renewable energy sources.
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Oil's Strategic Grip Is Weakening
- Oil's geopolitical power is diminishing as electrification and alternatives reduce demand growth to below 1% per year.
- Michael Liebreich warns it's premature to dismiss oil's importance because one shock could still spike prices and disrupt economies.
US Hemisphere Focus Over Gulf
- US actions in Latin America reflect a shift from Gulf-focused energy security to hemisphere-focused strategy.
- Liebreich suggests denying Venezuelan reserves to rivals may be part of a broader new US national security approach.
Reset Multilateral Climate Expectations
- Recognize multilateral climate consensus has fractured and reset expectations for international diplomacy.
- Prioritize pragmatic, shovel-ready policies and market mechanisms rather than relying solely on grand multilateral deals.