Energy lecture: Energy transition from the global perspective, by Noe van Hulst (Ambassador of The Netherlands at OECD and IEA

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) focuses on “better policies for better lives” and the International Energy Agency (IEA) on reliable and sustainable energy policies. The transition to a low-carbon economy is critical in the work of both OECD and IEA. It is also one of the priorities of the current G20 presidency of Germany. In his lecture Noe van Hulst will elaborate on the challenges and possibilities on a global scale during this path of energy transition. What is the role of OECD countries in this transition and how do recent political changes and events influence the potential success of the Paris Agreement?

The Paris Agreement is an unprecedented achievement in the global fight against climate change. A record number of countries came together, first in the French capital for the COP21 conference in November-December 2015 and then formally to sign the agreement at the UN on 22 April 2016, to ensure that future generations enjoy a stable, healthy and habitable world. The agreement sets the world on a path to limit global temperature rise through reduced emissions.

New sources of energy need to be deployed on a scale equivalent to the industrial revolution. Without decisive action, energy-related emissions of CO₂ will double by 2050. There are numerous positive movements towards a greener world, and yet the world also still faces resistance. (Geo-) Politics, economics and national interest are still driving forces impacting the pace of change. These forces however could also be the catalyst for saving the planet before it is too late.

In this session, the energy transition will be approached from a global perspective and we may wonder what the role of a medium-sized country such as The Netherlands is in this global shift.