The Iran war dominated March energy coverage, as escalation and Strait of Hormuz risks drove oil price spikes and market volatility, amplified by Trump policy signals. Venezuela remained secondary, surfacing mainly in sanctions discussions and as a potential supply backfill amid efforts to stabilize markets. AI/data center narratives persisted but shifted to grid strain and reliability concerns, as the focus moved from longer-term electricity needs and infrastructure buildout to acute energy security.

Oil and gas surged in March as Iran-driven supply shocks and price volatility dominated coverage. Oil nearly doubled its share of voice amid market shocks, infrastructure threats, and Trump policy signals. Natural gas rose more modestly as a reliability buffer. Renewables, nuclear, and coal declined as focus shifted from AI-driven demand and grid buildout to immediate supply, price, and energy security concerns.

While the Trump administration dominated energy trade coverage for the first couple of months of 2026, energy types are taking back the stage. In March, trade coverage focused on renewable projects across the country, like solar projects getting canceled due to local opposition and new PPAs. Oil and gas coverage was heavily influenced by CERAWeek, with news around the impact of the Iran conflict on the energy market, high oil and gas prices, and the unpredictable future for the energy industry.

Conversations this month highlighted Iran, Trump, and the Strait of Hormuz as central to the escalation of geopolitical and energy tensions. Iran’s actions drove fears of supply disruptions and strained alliances, while Trump’s policies shaped both military escalation and global energy responses. Meanwhile, risks to the Strait of Hormuz—carrying a major share of global oil and gas—intensified concerns over market volatility and energy security.

Hashtags this month reflected rising concerns over global supply disruptions. Iran’s actions, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, amplified fears of prolonged instability, while attacks on energy infrastructure drove oil price volatility. As shortages and rationing spread across markets, #EnergyCrisis captured growing economic strain and the urgent need for policy responses.