The Age of Fire: Why All Existing Forecasts on the Energy Transition Are Wrong

The heart of the contemporary argument on climate change and energy transition focuses on how energy supply should be decarbonized to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. This book proposes an alternative approach. The Age of Fire: Why All Existing Forecasts on the Energy Transition Are Wrong finds that energy transitions are not driven by supply-side driven transformations, but rather by evolutions in demand patterns. This author argues that ― contrary to common thought ― the so-called Energy Transition has not yet started. Exploring the potential of recently emerged key technologies, The Age of Fire explores the extent to which key technologies can significantly transform demand, i.e., provide the same service at a fraction of cost or offer new services not yet imagined. The conclusion is that, to a large extent, energy paradigm shifts are beneficial for society and inevitable: leading to lower costs, more jobs, and fast adaptation. This book concludes with key novel recommendations for government institutions to accelerate the energy transition, which ― instead of replicating an approach from the past ― would truly help advance civilization.