We need to be concerned about fossil-based energy considering the global depletion of fossil-based energy resources. We also face global warming, as a side effect of fossil-based energy we consume so far. Thus, energy transition is necessary.
Energy transition refers to the transformation of the global energy sector from fossil-based to renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. Energy transition also talk about utilizing environmentally friendly energy. “When we talk about energy transition, we talk about sustainable, renewable, carbon-neutral, and green energy,” said Dr. Hasto Kristyono, through a guest lecture entitled “ Embracing energy transition: economic criteria in the long-term corporate objective,” at MBA Jakarta SBM ITB on Saturday (3/7/2021).
Dr. Hasto Kristyono, the President Commissioner of PT Pertamina Power International, revealed that energy has a vital role in the advancement of civilization. This is because an advanced civilization requires higher energy levels, such as the energy to produce increased food crops and mobilize a greater output and variety of materials. Besides, it is also needed to produce more and more diverse goods, enable higher mobility, and create virtually unlimited access to information.
The more energy we use, however, will result in a negative effect for the environment as our main energy resource is still being fossil-based energy, increasing the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. The high amount of CO2 then causes global warming which impacts on living things on earth.
“Global warming may cause the loss of millions of people. If we don’t do a good job, our future generation will complain to us,” said Hasto.
So, energy transition is very important, not only looking for a new energy resource but also saving the planet from threats, such as global warming and climate change. To respond to these problems, Hasto revealed some steps that we can follow: reducing the energy demand, mainly fossil-based energy, changing how we power and fuel our lives, scaling-up carbon management industries, and tackling methane and nitrous oxide.
“All of us can contribute this way. The good news is the oil companies are also playing their role,” he said.
Finally, Hasto said that the financial factor is the main inhibiting factor in global climate action. However, Hasto hoped that the United Nations Climate Conference (COP 26), which will discuss financial solutions to the problem of climate change, can produce the best solution to this issue. “We have high hopes for COP26 in November in Glasgow,” said Hasto.
