Research Library

The Sheinbaum administration recently unveiled its National Strategy for the Electric Sector, aiming to strengthen Mexico’s state-owned companies. In doing so, it may have overlooked key economic, infrastructural, and technological challenges. In a new issue brief, nonresident scholar Rolando Fuentes explores the plan’s potential benefits, risks, and gaps — emphasizing how comprehensive and transparent policies are crucial for building a sustainable, vibrant electricity sector in Mexico.

South Korea’s potential aid to Ukraine could not only provide needed military support but also transform both nations’ roles on the global stage. In a new commentary for the Center for Strategic and International Studies, nonresident fellow Henry Haggard explores how such a move would reshape international diplomacy and strengthen South Korea’s global alliances and economic development.

Clean electricity technologies are here, and they’re affordable. So why does most of our power in the U.S. still come from fossil fuels? Daniel Cohan joined Baker Briefing to explain how bureaucratic bottlenecks have led to a backlog of wind, solar, and battery storage power projects that could, if built, revolutionize the grid and greatly reduce the emissions that contribute to climate change and air pollution.

A globally equitable energy transition that addresses social and economic disparities may seem unlikely at the moment, but international cooperation on energy policies is achievable. In a new working paper, visiting research scholar Osamah Alsayegh outlines the complex challenges facing a just energy transition and provides policy recommendations focused on promoting international collaboration and transparency.

Recently proposed federal legislation would require the Texas electrical grid to connect to the Eastern and Western Interconnections. While connecting the Texas grid may offer more power to the state and beyond, it would not eliminate the state’s energy reliability, connectivity, or outage concerns. Thus, policymakers should shift their focus to funding a thorough, practical study of all the issues involved in Texas grid integration, writes nonresident scholar Julie A. Cohn.

The purpose, scope, and scale of the roadsTaken project is introduced by Research Associate Matt Drwenski. He describes the research questions and challenges in studying Houston’s urban freeways and provides an in-depth overview.

Matt Drwenski discusses the history of freeway planning in Houston, Texas — from its origins in the early 20th century to the completion of the city’s urban highway system.

Developing global partnerships could provide essential research and funding for nuclear energy and the energy transition. In a new policy brief for Brussels School of Governance’s Centre for Security, Diplomacy, and Strategy, nonresident fellow Henry Haggard highlights potential collective efforts that JUKE could undertake to leverage their shared strengths for a more sustainable future.

By prioritizing energy transition speed over economic stability, Germany’s recent energy policies have resulted in persistent economic underperformance, the fear of growing industrial weakness, and potential political instability. Germany’s current economic status offers valuable lessons for the United States’ and other countries’ approaches to renewable energy adoption, writes Ted Loch-Temzelides.