What makes a ‘ good ’ renewable energy policy ? By 1998 , the WEC had already been dedicating its resources to renewable energy for 25 years . However , even to this day , what defines a ‘ good ’ renewable energy policy is constantly evolving .
“ Good renewable energy policies , in short , are clean , inclusive and just ,” explains Wilkinson . “ They avoid technology prescription in progressing net-zero goals . Policymaking must also bridge the tensions between stability and transformation , maintaining a healthy dynamic between supply-centric and demand-centric interests in an increasingly turbulent global context .”
Referring to the Paris Agreement , the international treaty on climate change agreed in 2015 , she adds : “ Paris is a milestone not the destination . The challenges are to mobilise faster , fairer and more far-reaching energy transitions , and develop diverse , decentralised , decarbonised and digitalised energy systems .”
It is commonplace for the WEC to see governments , businesses and international organisations claiming that renewable electrification can scale without other clean energy friends . The council disagrees , insisting this approach isn ’ t pragmatic .
Wilkinson points to the first electrification revolution , which has taken 100 years and still left billions of people without reliable , affordable , modern energy access – in addition to the one billion who lack basic access .
“ Countries who are succeeding have policies that support inclusive implementation – mobilising , enabling and convening more people , diverse communities and different industries , and understanding place-based realities ,” Wilkinson continues .
“ Addressing today ’ s complex energy challenge requires a humble leadership approach with agile , action learning which engages realities on the ground .”
World energy system ‘ no longer fit for purpose ’ Businesses , governments and organisations are well accustomed to setting sustainability-related targets , often tying in with the drive to achieve net zero .
And yet , despite accelerating technology innovation and ambitious promises of compensation for developing countries and vulnerable communities , the world is very likely to overshoot the goal of keeping global average warming below an increase of 1.5C since the pre-industrial days of 1850-1900 .
In May , researchers from the World Meteorological Organisation concluded there was a 66 % chance of passing the allimportant threshold for the first time by 2027 , although they did stress the breach would likely be temporary .
“ An increasing number of countries , companies , cities and other communities have set net zero targets with varying timelines and a diversity of roadmaps ,” says Wilkinson . “ But the truth is , even if all these goals are met , the world energy system is no longer fit for purpose .”
“ There has never been a more significant moment to pull together visionary leadership and the world energy community ”
ANGELA WILKINSON SECRETARY GENERAL & CEO , THE WORLD ENERGY COUNCIL
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