ABSTRACT
Increasing economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region in the 21st century resulted in rapidly growing energy consumption, which was satisfied by the countries in the region by growing imports of crude oil, natural gas and coal. But satisfying energy needs by imports undermined energy security of various states in the region.
The energy sector is enormously important for economic as well as political power. Since World War I, the dependence of many countries on foreign oil supplies has been used by their adversaries as a means of coercion. Today, worries that such dependence may be used for political purposes are expressed mainly in China, though in other countries as well. The purpose of this chapter is to compare the energy security policies of the three largest Indo-Pacific powers: China, Japan and India. Decisions taken by their authorities have a profound impact on the region and the world. The chapter has the following structure. Firstly, the term “energy security” is discussed in the context of political realism and liberalism. Secondly, challenges to the energy security of China, India and Japan are discussed. Thirdly, their energy policies are analysed. Finally, I compare the energy diplomacy they are conducting.
