Comparative Analysis of OECD Countries Based on Energy Trilemma Index: A Clustering Approach

TL;DR

This paper clusters OECD countries based on their energy trilemma index using k-means, revealing groups with varying levels of balance among energy security, equity, and sustainability.

Contribution

It applies a clustering approach with the Elbow and Silhouette methods to categorize countries by energy trilemma performance, visualizing the results for better understanding.

Findings

High group countries have achieved a good balance in energy trilemma dimensions.

Medium group countries are progressing but not yet optimal.

Low group countries face significant challenges in balancing energy aspects.

Abstract

This study analyzes OECD countries in the context of the energy trilemma index and clusters countries with similar characteristics. In the study, the k-means clustering technique is used. The optimum number of clusters was determined using the Elbow method in combination with the Silhouette Index. Moreover, all results are visualized to enhance comprehensibility. The results show that countries such as Austria, Canada, Finland, and Denmark are in the high energy trilemma group with index scores of 82.2, 82.3, 82.7, and 83.3, respectively. Countries in the high group have achieved a high level of balance between energy security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability. In addition, countries such as Belgium, Hungary, Australia, the Czech Republic, and Estonia are in the medium energy trilemma group with index scores of 76.4, 76.6, 77.1, 77.6, and 78.7, respectively. Countries in the medium group have made progress in balancing the dimensions of the energy trilemma but have not yet reached excellence. However, countries such as Mexico, T\"urkiye, Colombia, and Costa Rica are in the low energy trilemma group with index scores of 63.1, 64.1, 64.8, and 69.3, respectively. These low energy trilemma group countries face significant challenges in balancing energy security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability and need to make improvements in these areas.