Montenegro to Join Russian South Stream Project
The Russian gas pipeline is picking up momentum.
Energy
Exxon Moves on Kurdistan Deal Despite Baghdad Threat
Wikistrat analyzes the impact of the American oil company’s Iraq operation.
Chinese Leader Warns Iran Not to Close Strait
Wen Jiabao offered unusually sharp criticism of Tehran but China is still unlikely to join in an oil embargo.
Sudan Confiscates Southern Oil, What Will China Do?
China, dependent on Sudanese oil, might be caught in the crossfire of new tension.
Saudi Arabia Reminds Iran Who’s Boss
The Saudi oil minister declares that the kingdom will make up for a drop in Iranian oil production “almost immediately.”
Japan Agrees to Reduce Iranian Oil Imports
Japan follows Europe and the United States in imposing an oil embargo although it is quite dependent on Iranian crude.
European Union Agrees to Iran Oil Embargo
To put pressure on the regime in Tehran, European nations agree to sanction its oil exports.
Circumventing the Strait of Hormuz’ Bottleneck
As Iran threatens to shut the narrow waterway from international oil tankers, what alternatives are there?
Ethanol Subsidies Die
Finally, Congress expired the tax credit for ethanol blenders along with a tariff on Brazilian ethanol imports.
Azerbaijan, Turkey Sign Gas Pipeline Deal
In another blow to Russian energy politics, the two nations agreed to supply European markets with Caspian Sea gas.
US Government Considers Gas Export Restrictions
Energy producers want to export American gas but manufacturers are critical because they rely on cheap domestic gas.
Canada Prioritizes Energy Over Climate Treaty
Canada’s conservative government withdraws from the Kyoto climate change treaty to aid its oil sands industry.
Iran to “Practice” Closing the Persian Gulf
An Iranian lawmaker announced that his nation would test its ability to shut the narrow Strait of Hormuz.
America Needs an Arctic Strategy
The polar region promises shorter trade routes and natural riches. The United States cannot afford to miss out.
The Hydro Power Boom That Will Power Africa
Africa’s economic prospects are getting brighter as countries work to boost their hydroelectric production.