Evaluating sustainable energy security in China and Kazakhstan: A comprehensive data-driven approach

This study offers a detailed, data-driven analysis of sustainable energy security (SES) in China and Kazakhstan from 2005 to 2022, utilizing a novel framework based on five critical dimensions: availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, and develop-ability. The research integrates extensive socio-economic, energy, and environmental data to assess and compare the sustainable energy security (SES) trajectories of both nations against the backdrop of their unique geopolitical and economic contexts. Our findings reveal that while both countries have made significant strides towards enhancing their SES, they face distinct challenges. China, as a global powerhouse, has made notable advances in integrating sustainable practices within its energy sector, driven by comprehensive policy reforms and technological innovation. Kazakhstan's rich natural resources provide a robust base for energy security but require careful management to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. This paper concludes with strategic recommendations for both countries to enhance their energy security while aligning with global sustainability goals. The comparative analysis not only underscores the importance of a tailored approach to SES but also contributes to the broader discourse on energy security in the era of renewable transformation. • The study introduces a novel framework to analyse sustainable energy security (SES). • The framework with 18 indicators is tested for energy cases of China and Kazakhstan. • The findings indicate that both countries have made significant progress. • The study offers strategic recommendations for both nations to further enhance their SES.