Natural disaster risk governance and response strategies for energy systems under global climate change

Global climate change poses a severe threat to the stable operation of energy systems by intensifying the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. Based on the hazard-disaster-emergency response system framework, this paper systematically elucidates the risk transmission mechanism of natural disasters to energy production and transmission/distribution systems under climate change and analyzes the differentiated threats to traditional energy, renewable energy, and grid networks. The research reveals a significant spatial overlap between China's energy infrastructure and high-risk zones for natural disasters, exposing systemic climatic vulnerabilities. Case studies of the 2021 Texas freeze, the 2021 Henan floods, and the 2022 European heatwave and drought further uncover new climate risks that exceed historical engineering design standards. In response, this paper constructs a three-dimensional defense framework integrating technology, space, and institutions. Technologically, it enhances systemic resilience through intelligent monitoring, risk assessment, and microgrid coordination. Spatially, it reduces risk exposure via layout optimization and regional synergy. Institutionally, it strengthens top-level governance through legal regulations and coordinated governance mechanisms. Finally, the paper identifies four critical research priorities: enhancing operational resilience under extreme climates, promoting cross-regional coordination for renewable energy, conducting comprehensive risk assessments for energy siting, and establishing security mechanisms addressing the confluence of climate and geopolitical risks. This study aims to provide a theoretical foundation for building a highly resilient energy system.