Community Engagement in the Energy Transition

What is the energy transition?

While it is absolutely vital to reduce our global energy consumption, at present, 95% of our global Energy usage and emissions come from just 5% of the global population. Meanwhile, a very large percentage of people living don’t have access to a just and reliable energy supply. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the energy transition refers to the shift from fossil fuels to very low or zero carbon energy sources, such as renewables or fossil fuels with Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), demand-side measures and improving energy efficiency. However, the transition cannot be only about technology, it must include many different aspects, such as economy and politics, but most importantly the social aspect. The question that arises is how the transition can be just, so no one is left behind. The dimensions that should be considered are part of the Energy Trilemma, which illustrates the importance of keeping a balance between energy security, energy equity and environmental sustainability. These are often in tension but are all necessary if we want to have healthy and resilient systems. Decentralized Energy Systems can help address challenges related to energy poverty and the climate crisis creating a strong argument for the Energy Transition.