Recently, the evolving energy transition has been discussed, a concept that gained prominence after the 1973 oil crisis and was championed by President Jimmy Carter. The transition represents the global shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources to mitigate climate change. It is propelled by government policies, international agreements like the Paris Agreement, and advances in energy technology.
Historically, the U.S. has undergone energy transitions, notably when coal began to replace wood as the primary energy source around 1850. In the 20th century, oil and natural gas usage increased, leading to a decline in coal consumption, which later surged again. Nuclear power also saw significant growth starting in the 1960s.
Currently, a similar trend is observable. Although coal consumption is decreasing, largely due to natural gas displacement and a secondary contribution from renewables, this does not signify a complete shift from fossil fuels. Data shows that global energy demand has consistently outpaced the growth of renewable energy for most of the past decade, except for a notable dip in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ongoing reliance on fossil fuels, despite the rise of renewables, indicates that the anticipated energy transition is not fully realized. This phenomenon has led some to describe the situation as an “energy expansion” rather than a true transition.
For effective energy policies, it is vital to align with current realities. Policies should promote renewable energy while acknowledging the ongoing demand for fossil fuels to prevent potential energy shortages and price hikes. The path to a sustainable energy future requires not only ambition but also practical strategies and careful planning.
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