Energy Transition Meaning, Prospect, and Relevance Explained
Energy transition is the process of shifting dependence from one energy source or technology to another. This article discusses energy transition meaning, prospect, and relevance, as outlined below;
-Energy Transition Meaning: 5 Ways to Define Energy Transition
-Origin and Prospect of Energy Transition
-Relevance of the Energy Transition
Energy Transition Meaning: 5 Ways to Define Energy Transition
Energy transition is the gradual and progressive migration away from one type, mechanism or source of energy, to another.
An alternative energy transition meaning briefly highlights the relevance and applications of this process, as follows;
Energy transition is the process of changing energy sources to improve energy efficiency and conservation, in areas like electricity generation, construction and transport [1].
The concept of electricity generation is prominent with respect to energy transition, because of the wide use of electricity.
Efficiency and energy conservation in the context of energy transition, can be optimized by the introduction of innovative systems and practices like energy recovery and usage control through smart grids, energy management systems, artificial intelligence, and improved renewable technologies.
Below is an alternative energy transition meaning, which highlights the role of renewable energy in the transition process;
Energy transition is the shift from conventional energy sources and technologies like fossil fuels, coal-fired power plants, electric generators, nuclear power plants, and non-renewable turbine systems, to renewable energy sources and technologies like wind, solar, geothermal, bioenergy, hydroelectric plants, biorefineries, electric cars and hybrid vehicles.
The above definition lists nuclear plants among ‘conventional technologies’ because nuclear energy is non-renewable, and produces materials that can reduce air quality and cause other forms of environmental degradation.
While nuclear energy is not extremely common, its characteristics contradict the basic goal of energy transition, which is among the sustainable development goals; and is concerned with protecting the ecosystem and minimizing negative environmental impacts.
Below is yet another energy transition meaning, which highlights the link between the transition agenda and sustainable development;
Energy transition is the gradual movement from one energy source, production and usage method, or technology, to another, in an effort to improve performance, conserve resources, and mitigate greenhouse emissions, global warming and climate change [3].
Lastly, energy transition meaning is outlined in terms of period of significance, and some associated concepts;
Energy transition is a dynamic concept of energy source migration, which started in the early Industrialization Era, and has grown in relevance alongside other concepts like sustainability, environmental remediation, soil and water conservation, and carbon capture.
Origin and Prospect of Energy Transition
Energy transition started in the late sixteenth century, and its introduction period extended to the early seventeenth century.
This is also known as the “Elizabethan Era”, and coincides with the shift from biomass fuel to coal.
Coal remained the most-used fossil fuel globally, till the discovery of petroleum in the mid-nineteenth century [2].
The late twentieth century signifies the most recent period in the energy transition agenda, and is simultaneous with the growth of sustainable development concepts like circular economy and renewable energy.
Future prospects of energy transition are huge, and include associated technological advancement, innovation, environmental protection, and economic growth.
Relevance of the Energy Transition
Energy transition is important because of its positive potentials and contributions to the economy, environment and society.
Economic impacts of energy transition include job creation.
The shift to alternative energy sources and technologies is associated with the creation of millions of jobs in exploration, design, production, operation and maintenance [4]. This will in turn improve the general quality of living.
In addition to job creation, the energy transition supports innovative changes that can reduce the cost of energy and electricity generation by optimizing energy efficiency, energy conservation, and energy recovery.
The energy transition also aims to address climate change and associated environmental impacts like greenhouse emissions, global warming, air quality reduction, and desertification.
By so doing, additional costs related to environmental remediation, carbon capture, and carbon tax enforcement, can be eliminated.
Conclusion
Energy transition is the gradual process of shifting from one energy source or technology to another.
The energy transition started between the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, with the replacement of biomass fuel with coal.
Energy transition is important due to its positive prospects toward the environment, economy and society.
References
1). Cevheribucak, G. (2021). “Energy Transition and Sustainable Road Transportation in Turkey: Multiple Policy Challenges for Inclusive Change.” Frontiers in Sustainable Cities 3:631337. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3389/frsc.2021.631337. (Accessed 3 October 2022).
2). Hulten, F. F.; Beheer; E. (2009). “Brief history of petroleum exploration in the Netherlands.” Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265819390_Brief_history_of_petroleum_exploration_in_the_Netherlands. (Accessed 3 October 2022).
3). Myhrvold, N.; Caldeira, K. (2012). “Greenhouse gases, climate change and the transition from coal to low-carbon electricity.” Environmental Research Letters 7(1). Available at: https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/7/1/014019. (Accessed 3 October 2022).
4). Ochs, A.; Gioutsos, D. (2017). “The Employment Effects of Renewable Energy Development Assistance.” Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321398329_The_Employment_Effects_of_Renewable_Energy_Development_Assistance. (Accessed 3 October 2022).
