Introduction to Energy Strategy Reviews theme issue "Strategy options and models for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) energy transition"

Energy strategy encompasses the analysis, planning, decision making, and practical steps required to transition from a present to future energy system. The context for energy strategy can be local, national, regional, or global. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) comprises a group of nations that have traditionally played a key role in the global supply of conventional hydrocarbon energy resources. As the energy transition to increasing amounts of unconventional hydrocarbon, nuclear, and renewable energy resources evolves, it is only natural that MENA countries will consolidate and expand their prominent role in the development and supply of current and future energy systems. This special issue of Energy Strategy Reviews focuses on the full spectrum of MENA energy strategies being developed. A prominent group of authors from the world's leading research establishments offer insights into the most pressing energy related issues facing the MENA region and provide valuable guidance for both regional and global decision makers. Particular focus has been placed on forward looking analyses of the various options for MENA's future energy system solutions, modeled to highlight impacts on the power sector and to make decision criteria explicit. The analyses, case studies and report reviews in this ESR MENA special issue take into consideration supply and demand balances within the regional and global regulatory, social, and environmental contexts.