Energy transition

Energy transition (German: [Energiewende] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)) is the transition of Germany and several other countries to sustainable economies by means of renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable development. The final goal is the abolishment of nuclear, coal, and other non-renewable energy sources.

Germany

The key policy document outlining the Energiewende was published by the German government in September 2010, some six months before the Fukushima nuclear accident. Legislative support was passed in 2011. Important aspects include:

• greenhouse gas reductions : 80–95% reduction by 2050
• renewable energy targets : 60% share by 2050
• energy efficiency : electricity efficiency up by 50% by 2050
• an associated research and development drive

Energy Transition Media

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  Progress of current energy transition to renewable energy: Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas still remain the world's primary energy sources, even as renewables are increasing in use.

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  Example of Distributed generation use of renewable energies: Agricultural business with biogas plant and photovoltaic roof

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  Over centuries, energy consumption has evolved from burning wood to fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), and in recent decades to using nuclear, hydroelectric and other renewable energy sources.

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  In 2024 the world reached over 40% clean electricity.

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  Timeline of commissioned and decommissioned nuclear capacity since the 1950s

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  Countries that managed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions (working towards a low-carbon economy) while still growing their economy. This is called eco-economic decoupling.

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  Acceptance of wind and solar facilities in one's community is stronger among Democrats (blue), while acceptance of nuclear power plants is stronger among Republicans (red).

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  Gross generation of electricity by source in Germany 1990–2020

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  United Kingdom electricity generation by source - percentage share