NATO Operational Energy Concept Development

By Tahmina Karimova, Faculty Associate-Research, Energy Academic Group

The Naval Postgraduate School’s Energy Academic Group (EAG) hosted the NATO Operational Energy Concept (OEC) working group from 26–29 February 2024. The event was jointly organized with the NATO Energy Security Center of Excellence (ENSEC COE) and EAG. In early 2021, the ENSEC COE in coordination with the NATO Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) and in close collaboration with partner organizations, started developing the OEC that—when approved—will serve as guidance for deployed NATO forces.

The February meeting brought together a diverse group of 40 NATO allies and partner organizations, as well as military and academic representatives. This effort served as the final step in writing the OEC, which will be submitted for approval to HQ SACT in late spring of 2024.

The key takeaway from the meeting was that the future challenge will be security of energy supply at the right time and in the right places, while accounting for climate concerns.

EAG has been actively involved in developing and executing an extensive portfolio of OE-related research, education, and outreach efforts to effectively address emerging and complex needs of naval forces, DoD, and allied partners. The OEC and our energy-focused collective work serve as a solid demonstration of the value of our Alliance and our cooperation.

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