5 Key UNECE recommendations for building resilient energy systems

Building Resilient Energy Systems:
Actions for Achieving Greater Energy Security, Affordability
and Net-zero in the UNECE Region

PDF Download: UNITED NATIONS ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR EUROPE

The Committee on Sustainable Energy’s experts advise policymakers to give priority to the following five solutions that enhance systemic efficiency, maximize resource utilization, and lower related carbon footprints in order to create more resilient energy systems.

1. Give energy efficiency solutions top priority and make the most of their application. Boost energy efficiency and improve systemic efficiencies in the building, transportation, and industry sectors as well as in the energy generation, transmission, and distribution networks. Energy systems will be better equipped to withstand shocks and bounce back fast as a result.

2. Digitalize the energy systems and take advantage of opportunities brought about by increased digital literacy and the accessibility of digital solutions at every stage of the energy transition and at every level of the energy systems. This can increase the resilience of the energy system and lower end-use energy demand.

3. Quicken the transition from carbon-intensive to low- and zero-carbon fuels. In order to preserve economic stability and guaranty energy security, nations should work to strategically use the fuels that are currently available while gradually substituting low- and zero-carbon technology options for carbon-intensive fuels.

4. Use the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC) and the United Nations Resource Management System (UNRMS), which are designed to enhance resource management and project planning, to manage resources efficiently, sustainably, and with consideration for circularity. Incorporating circular carbon considerations into decision-making is essential because the energy system’s transition to a cleaner one will necessitate more circular materials and resources, including products that are both repairable and recyclable by design.

5. To gradually decarbonize the energy system, accelerate the adoption of low- and zero-carbon technology. When it is technically and financially possible, replace carbon-intensive fuels with other low- and zero-carbon technology options and invest in expanding the use of renewable energy. Implement carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) to lessen the carbon footprint of the remaining hydrocarbon-based fuels. Promote greater collaboration and create nondiscriminatory frameworks, technologies, and funding sources for investments in all low- and zero-carbon technologies throughout the region.