Tracking Energy Crisis Policy Responses

The conflict in the Middle East has dealt a major shock to global energy markets. The near closure of the Strait of Hormuz has triggered the largest supply disruption in the history of oil markets, alongside significant impacts on supplies of natural gas and other energy-related commodities. As concerns over supply security have grown, prices have risen across several parts of the energy system, increasing pressure on household budgets, public finances, and economic activity more broadly.

Many actions are being taken to bolster oil supply, including the largest-ever release of emergency oil stocks coordinated by the IEA. At the same time, many governments are taking demand-side measures as they look to shield consumers from high energy prices. To support these actions, the IEA published a report, Sheltering from Oil Shocks, with a menu of 10 demand-side options for governments, households and businesses that could help to quickly save fuel. The IEA has also been closely monitoring the actions taken by countries around the world through a new 2026 Energy Crisis Policy Response Tracker, which highlights measures from nearly 80 countries to reduce demand for oil and other fuels, protect consumers from high energy prices, and enhance long-term resilience.

During this webinar, IEA experts will present key findings from the Tracker – identifying emerging trends in the types of policies that are being introduced, how they are being designed, and key regional differences. Following the presentation, participants can ask questions or provide feedback on the Tracker.