Trilateral Energy Security
Committee (TESC)
In today’s complex geopolitical environment, energy security is more critical than ever. The Center for International Trade and Development (CITD), a part of OSU Global, and the Hamm Institute for American Energy at Oklahoma State University is leading a major international initiative to address this urgent issue.
This effort was launched in response to a request from SK Energy, South Korea’s largest energy company, to explore energy security challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in South Korea and Japan. Together, CITD and the Hamm Institute are spearheading the Trilateral Energy Security Committee (TESC), a collaborative project that brings together top researchers from OSU, the Korea Energy Economics Institute (KEEI), and the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ).
South Korea and Japan are especially vulnerable to energy supply disruptions due to their reliance on imports and exposure to global market volatility. These disruptions, whether caused by geopolitical tensions, environmental events, or policy shifts, can have serious consequences for economic stability and national security.
CITD researchers, including Dr. John Schoeneman, Andrew Ranson, and Annette Stanly, are working on a multi-phase research strategy that combines advanced data modeling, machine learning, and qualitative interviews. The goal is to develop policy recommendations that enhance energy resilience while supporting carbon reduction goals.
Early findings highlight the continued importance of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a transitional energy source, while also exploring the potential of emerging technologies such as hydrogen, ammonia, and small modular reactors (SMRs). These innovations offer promising solutions for diversifying energy sources and strengthening infrastructure.
This project reflects CITD’s commitment to applying global expertise to real-world challenges. Through its collaboration with the Hamm Institute and international partners, OSU Global is helping shape a more secure, sustainable, and interconnected energy future for the U.S. and its allies, while laying the groundwork for continued innovation and shared progress in this critical field.