How to balance the energy transition and energy resilience for a net-zero future

We desperately need to move away from fossil-fuel-based energy and adopt renewable, clean technologies as part of a comprehensive sustainability strategy. The energy transition is vital if we are to reduce emissions and pollution and secure a net-zero future. 

However, not all countries have the same resources and financial support. These factors will greatly influence their ability to transition to green energy solutions. Energy resilience also remains an important pillar in the equation. 

Why we need to achieve energy transition

The energy transition is about more than simply power generation, it comprises the sector’s shift from fossil fuels to renewable resources. The wider goal, however, is to curb carbon emissions globally while electrifying significant transportation and industry systems and developing energy storage. 

For example, carbon-free or low-carbon fuels, like hydrogen, are already being promoted as potential solutions for our challenges. Moving away from traditional sources and utilising renewable, clean sources of energy can greatly help us to decarbonise the globe. 

There are many benefits to adopting renewable energy. Namely, reducing emissions and pollution. However, making the switch will also diversify the energy supply and reduce our dependence on imported fuels. Not to mention, the transition will create jobs and economic development in a range of areas like installation and manufacturing. 

How to strike the balance to ensure energy resilience

While this transition is necessary, it is also vital we strike the right balance to ensure energy resilience. Causes of resilience issues consist of weather, natural disasters, power surges, accidents, and even equipment faults. Energy resilience makes certain we have a reliable and regular supply of energy. 

In addition, contingency measures are put in place in the case of power failure. As a business, making sure your energy is resilient will help insulate against price fluctuations or increases in supply. The energy landscape is undergoing a radical transformation, but we cannot forget about ensuring energy resilience in our net zero future.

Unfortunately, the challenges, opportunities, and risks associated with the energy transition are not evenly distributed around the world. In other words, some countries can rely on more financial support or natural resources than others. Not all economies are in a position to address the challenges. Therefore, considerations surrounding resilience and affordability will shape every country’s ability to make the energy transition.

Renewable energy sources are a great example of resilience, especially in the context of the current energy crisis. These kinds of energy are better able to resist worldwide shocks than those based on fossil fuels, for example. The reason for this is that the energy systems are controlled locally and are much less susceptible to the adverse effects of the climate crisis. With fossil fuel-based energies, there is local independence in energy distribution or generation. The local production of renewable energy means it does not rely on imports once projects are operational. 

Summary

Energy is vital to our daily lives, and ensuring energy systems are resilient has never been more difficult. As we make the shift to our future energy systems, we can expect energy resilience to remain a challenge. However, renewables can strike the perfect balance between helping us achieve energy resilience and achieving our net-zero future.