Energy Agency Proposes COVID-Style Playbook For Limiting Fuel Use Now

As global energy markets continue reacting to tensions in Iran, governments are quietly preparing measures that could directly affect how—and how fast—people drive.

One of the more immediate proposals involves reducing highway speed limits by about 6 mph, a move that could help cut fuel consumption across national road networks. Even modest reductions in cruising speed can significantly lower fuel demand when applied at a national scale.

The idea is being pushed by the International Energy Agency (IEA), which has warned that disruptions to oil shipments through key routes like the Strait of Hormuz could tighten global supply. In response, the agency is encouraging countries to revisit emergency strategies used during past crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lower speed limits and restrictions on driving are the fastest and easiest measures to implement. Beyond speed reductions, the IEA is also advocating for more drastic strategies such as increased frequency of working from home, use of public transit, carpooling, and reduced air travel.

It's going to be tough for some employers to reinstate COVID-era policies that could create workplace friction between blue-collar workers required to be on site and white-collar colleagues who can work remotely. Of course, most are also in the middle of drawn-out return-to-work initiatives, and there could be potential employment rights issues in forcing some workers to bear increased fuel costs, while allowing others to avoid them.

Another option being floated is a license plate rotation system, where vehicles with odd- and even-numbered plates are only allowed on the road on alternating days.

While there is currently no confirmed fuel shortage—especially in North America, where we have plenty of our own supply—departments responsible for transport and energy are coordinating contingency plans. Among the 31 member countries being advised by the IEA are the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK.

Other measures could include prioritizing fuel access for emergency services and public transportation, while limiting how much fuel private motorists can purchase. According to the Guardian, more extreme steps—such as closing gas stations overnight—have also been discussed as part of emergency scenarios.

There is even consideration of redirecting certain fuel supplies away from transportation and toward energy production if needed.

AutoGuide's Take:

The conflict in Iran has already disrupted key energy infrastructure and shipping routes, with oil prices responding sharply, driving up the cost of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel worldwide—along with everything else.

Already, the IEA authorized the largest release of strategic oil reserves in its history to stabilize markets, but that's only part of the battle. There have already been some changes to supply-side actions, such as easing fuel standards, before moving forward with more restrictive policies like rationing or stay-at-home orders.

Some European nations have introduced fuel price controls—as if we're going to be so lucky in North America—while others are encouraging reduced travel for public officials and launching campaigns to cut energy use.

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