An energy vision: the transformation towards sustainability — interconnected challenges and solutions

The energy system is currently facing a number of challenges, most notably high consumption levels, lack of energy access, environmental concerns like climate change and air pollution, energy security concerns and the need for a long-term focus. Addressing these critical issues simultaneously will require a fundamental transformation of the global energy system. Recent assessments show that such transformational pathways are achievable in technological and economic terms, but constitute formidable governance challenges across scales. In this paper, we discuss a long-term vision for the energy system and elements of the transition towards this vision. This transformation would need to be based on several key components, including taking an integrated approach as basis, the focus on high levels of energy efficiency and the scale up of investments, also in RD&D.

► In order to achieve the multiple objectives of the energy system transformation, implementation of a large number of systems changes would need to begin today. ► Integrated policies in aid of these objectives can have important synergies. ► Formulating a long-term vision with respect to the energy system is important, given the critical importance of the energy system for societal objectives and the inertia around making the required transformation. ► A key element of such a transformation is scaling up and redirecting investments with respect to deployment and RD&D into directions indicated by the long-term vision.