Low-cost renewable electricity as the key driver of the global energy transition towards sustainability

TLDR

Climate change and SDG goals require a fundamental transformation of the global energy system, with an ongoing transition mainly in the power sector. The study demonstrates that 100 % renewable energy systems for power, heat, transport, and desalination are technically feasible and economically viable. The authors develop a technology‑rich, multi‑sectoral, multi‑regional, cost‑optimal transition pathway covering 145 regional energy systems across nine major world regions. The scenario compatible with a 1.5 °C target, featuring rapid electrification and massive defossilisation, yields 50 % energy savings, universal fresh‑water access, and low‑cost energy, and charts a path from fossil fuels to an affordable, efficient, sustainable, and secure energy future.

Abstract

Climate change threats and the necessity to achieve global Sustainable Development Goals demand unprecedented economic and social shifts around the world, including a fundamental transformation of the global energy system. An energy transition is underway in most regions, predominantly in the power sector. This research highlights the technical feasibility and economic viability of 100% renewable energy systems including the power, heat, transport and desalination sectors. It presents a technology-rich, multi-sectoral, multi-regional and cost-optimal global energy transition pathway for 145 regional energy systems sectionalised into nine major regions of the world. This 1.5 °C target compatible scenario with rapid direct and indirect electrification via Power-to-X processes and massive defossilisation indicates substantial benefits: 50% energy savings, universal access to fresh water and low-cost energy supply. It also provides an energy transition pathway that could lead from the current fossil-based system to an affordable, efficient, sustainable and secure energy future for the world.