B1: Energy and Climate Change

Climate change and its derived dire consequences are arguably the most significant threat humankind is facing currently. The overwhelming scientific consensus, albeit not complete, points to anthropogenically caused greenhouse gas emissions as the likeliest cause behind the sustained increases in temperature and weather variability, recorded since the onset of the industrial revolution at the beginning of the XIX century. Furthermore, energy consumption at large, and fossil fuel burning particularly, has been pinpointed as the primary root cause of those emissions. Naturally, then, solving the conundrum of meeting ever increasing energy needs while simultaneously reducing, mitigating, and eventually eliminating GHG emissions is a must. The problem is compounded because of a growing world population and the Sustainable Development Goals guaranteeing universal access to clean electricity and energy in general. Reaching the target of a low carbon clean energy system for all, however, is not a straightforward task and, in fact, there is a closed system of linked hurdles to be overcome. As an example, the non-exclusive list of relevant topics can be broken down into the list below. The section will consider full research papers and short communications on all the topics in the list. Review and perspective papers are also especially encouraged.

Supply of clean energy

• Main traditional renewable sources, such as sun, wind, and hydro. Complementary renewable sources such as geothermal and biomass. All other renewable sources not operational yet, such as ocean energies.
• Energy sources cleaner than fossil fuels but somehow controversial, such as nuclear and biofuel.
• Carbon remove technologies, such as Carbon Capture and Storage, and Direct Carbon Capture

Energy demand

• Efficiency and saving.
• Demand management: lifestyle changes and direct demand reduction.
• New energy demand sources, e.g., blockchain technologies, telecommunications, etc.

Availability issues

• Available supply, particularly related to hydropower, biomass, and wind.
• Availability of materials and so-called rare-earths.
• Impacts of climate change on the availability of specific renewable energy sources, globally, and at specific sites.

Economics of the transition

• Investment needs in renewable capacities and their financing.
• Foreign account rebalancing—deficit and surpluses.
• Carbon taxes and fuel subsidies.
• Stranded assets.
• Speed of the transition

Political issues

• Redistribution of power at the international level.
• Justice of the transition regarding social groups and regions.