Disruptions in global energy supplies caused by ongoing conflict in the Middle East have underscored the critical need for a more resilient energy system worldwide, with particular implications for Asia, according to Wolf Mueller, CEO of the service business unit and executive vice-president at Hitachi Energy. Mueller shared his views during the 17th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum and Exhibition held in Macao from June 10 to 12.
Mueller emphasized that the current crisis, driven by fluctuating oil supplies, highlights the urgency of accelerating the deployment of renewable energy, expanding electrification, and investing in power grid infrastructure to lessen dependence on volatile fossil fuel markets. He pointed out that electricity security has become a fundamental element of national security, urging countries to prioritize power infrastructure as a critical asset.
China’s position in the global energy landscape, Mueller noted, is particularly strong due to its diversified energy mix and status as the world’s largest market for renewable energy. The country’s rapid growth in hydropower and nuclear capacity, coupled with a highly interconnected grid system, provides a framework for improved energy security amid global uncertainties.
The forum, themed "Boosting Green Digital Infrastructure Connectivity," is a major annual event for the global infrastructure community. It was organized jointly by the China International Contractors Association and the Macao Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute.
Looking ahead to China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), Mueller identified significant opportunities for Hitachi Energy in supporting the nation’s efforts to build a new energy system. This includes servicing and upgrading existing power assets, advancing digital solutions, and facilitating the transition to low-carbon infrastructure. Highlighting recent achievements, he cited the company’s delivery of the world’s first 550 kilovolt sulfur hexafluoride-free retrofill solution at the Zhejiang Beilun power plant in Ningbo, East China, which represents a notable step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in power transmission.
Mueller also pointed to China's extensive experience operating one of the largest and most advanced power grids as a model for integrating large-scale renewable energy and responding to surging electricity demands, including from emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
Kim Dae-sik, vice-chairman of the International Contractors Association of Korea, attending the forum for the first time, concurred that the Middle East conflict has revealed vulnerabilities for energy-import-dependent countries, such as the Republic of Korea. He sees potential for strengthened cooperation between Korea and China in renewable energy development and joint exploration of third-country markets. Kim further noted that post-conflict recovery efforts will require extensive rebuilding not only in transport infrastructure but also in sectors including oil and gas, petrochemicals, and power generation.
The importance of new energy infrastructure was also underscored in the Belt and Road Infrastructure Development Index Report (2026), released during the forum. The report identified clean energy projects as a vital component of the energy transition and sustainable growth for Belt and Road Initiative countries.
In his remarks, Ronny Hutahayan, deputy coordinating minister for Housing and Settlement Infrastructure Development of Indonesia, highlighted China’s expertise in clean energy, power transmission, and submarine cable technologies as crucial to Indonesia’s upcoming development stages. He expressed Indonesia’s readiness to deepen infrastructure cooperation with China to support these goals.