The case for the transition towards sustainable energy systems has never been stronger. Global economic rebalancing, environmental concerns, and improvements in energy efficiency due to technological innovations – all combined – continue to drive the gradual decarbonization of the global fuel mix. Transitioning towards sustainable energy systems often involves optimizing multiple pathways.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) aims to “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.”[1] Indeed, improving access to affordable and clean energy for all, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the carbon footprint of the energy sector, is a laudable objective. However, the “energy trilemma” – a conceptual framework for understanding the tensions inherent in balancing energy security, affordability, and environmental sustainability — remains a central challenge for energy governance.
