Introduction to Energy Achieving a just energy transition. Part 2. Some possible solutions

Abstract

Creating a new and sustainable energy system is humanity’s greatest challenge. The enormous and unprecedented challenge we face is to power the planet, reduce energy poverty, and slash greenhouse gas emissions simultaneously. This will require a much more holistic approach to the use of all our energy resources, combining renewable energy (wind, solar & hydroelectric, nuclear, hydrogen, and geothermal energy) with a much more limited use of fossil fuels and the application of hub-scale CO 2 capture and storage. Some of the world’s traditional oil and gas super basins will evolve into the “Energy Super Basins” of the future. These will use plentiful, clean electricity from wind and solar, and hub-scale CO 2 sequestration to improve sustainability. Some will also become the “Energy Super Hubs” of the future, integrating multiple energy sources (hydrocarbons, geothermal, renewables, hydrogen and biofuels), mineral extraction from produced water, direct and indirect storage uses (including CO 2 , compressed air and hydrogen), waste management — and, in some cases at least — forestry and biofuels — to maximise economic and infrastructure synergies to achieve “net zero” — and perhaps even net negative carbon. All future pathways to a cleaner energy future, based on a larger proportion of renewable energy, will require a very significant increase in mining, whether for lithium for batteries, cobalt for smartphones, or neodymium for wind turbines. This will almost inevitably come at a cost to the environment and to local communities. As we navigate toward carbon neutrality, the need for informed, science-based solutions and decisions has never been greater. Geoscientists are at the heart of the future of energy. The worst possible scenario would be if the world cannot continue to meet its increasing energy demand, does not extend the availability of power and fuel to energystarved communities, and fails to avoid the most serious effects of climate change.