Green shoots of progress
Today, we are at a tipping point where renewable energy is often cheaper than carbon-based fossil fuels. The International Energy Agency (IEA) says that fossil fuel demand will peak by 2030. Renewables will overtake coal as the leading source of electricity by 20255. These developments are linked to technological advancements, economies of scale, government subsidies, and commercial investment. These green shoots of progress are cause for optimism, but the transition to low carbon energy sources presents a dual risk to many industries and firms.
The transition challenges are not uniform. Industries relying on fossil fuels for heat or chemical reactions still struggle to find financially viable renewable alternatives. Great strides are being made in biofuels, hydrogen fuel cells and geothermal energy, as well as in the technology to create battery power for big fossil burning industries like the steel industry.