Emerging economies are gaining significant international influence because they possess the essential minerals, manufacturing potential, and rapidly expanding markets needed for the global transition to clean energy. According to the authors of the newly released report, this unique position allows these nations to negotiate with major global powers that are currently competing for access to these vital resources.
“CVF nations hold three assets that the energy transition runs on – critical minerals, favourable manufacturing geography and fast-growing consumer markets. Three competing blocs – China, the European Union and the United States — seek access to all three.”
In simpler terms, the countries most vulnerable to climate change are sitting on the building blocks of the future economy. Because the world’s biggest powers—China, the U.S., and Europe—all need these materials and markets at the same time, these developing nations now have the power to choose the best deals and partners. This shifts the balance of power, giving smaller countries a voice in global affairs they did not have during the era of oil and gas.
The report “The electric fast-track for emerging markets” was published globally by energy think tank Ember, in partnership with the Climate Vulnerable Forum, on 2 April 2026. Authored by a team including Daan Walter and Sam Butler-Sloss, the analysis details how developing nations can bypass fossil fuel reliance through scalable and affordable electric technologies.
