by Xinhua writer Yin Xiaosheng

BRUSSELS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The tensions in the Middle East and the volatility of the global oil market could be a catalyst for countries to shift toward renewable energy, according to former under-secretary-general of the United Nations Erik Solheim.

"The crisis in the Middle East is supercharging this because everyone wants to be energy independent," Solheim told Xinhua in a recent interview, pointing specifically to the impact of tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

He argued that the current instability is driving nations to seek domestic energy security by moving away from a "very volatile oil market" toward green resources like solar, wind and hydropower.

Solheim warned that the energy crisis hits vulnerable, low-income countries the hardest by driving up the costs of fertilizers and transport. To mitigate this, he called for a "global norm" of cooperation.

Solheim emphasized that green technology is no longer just an environmental choice but an economic necessity. "If you switch to solar, you save money," he said, describing renewables as the cheapest and most scalable energy sources available today.

Impressed by China's energy resilience, he highlighted China's strong domestic energy system and its booming electric vehicle industry as key factors in its energy security.

China is now a key player in green industries, producing a large share of the world's solar panels and electric batteries, he said.

The former UN official also noted that many nations are wary of being overly dependent on shifting policies from Washington, which can cause oil prices to fluctuate based on "the latest rumors."

Hence, leaders are looking toward "stable energy resources based on domestic sun, wind and rivers."

Solheim urged European countries and other global partners to embrace cooperation with China's green industries, warning that trade barriers will only slow the pace of green transition and derail the fight against climate change. ■