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Energy conversion: A boom in alternatives to fossil fuels.

Trend 06

Energy conversion

Energy conversion

A boom in alternatives to fossil fuels.

Trend axes

  • Net zero
  • Clean energy
  • Climate change
  • Post fossil future

Some figures

40%

Share of international shipping that consists of transporting fossil fuels around the world.

80%

Share of the world's energy produced by non-renewable fossil fuels, including natural gas, oil and coal.

1.5

Degrees above pre-industrial levels to which the 2015 Paris Agreement set out to limit global warming.

48.4%

Share of electricity produced by renewables (water, wind, sun and biomass) in Spain in 2021. The highest figure on record.

A dangerous dependence

One of the worst energy winters in memory is approaching. The constant rise in gas prices, up by as much as 700% in just one year, squeezes pockets, switches off boilers and puts governments' supply plans in serious trouble.

The energy crisis widens the energy poverty gap, and many people have already decided to leave their cars parked and not turn on the heating to stop their bills from multiplying.

In response, governments are reorganising their budgets and launching regulated tariffs and vouchers to help people cope with the coldest months.

A context that, although worsened by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, is not new to Europe.

Coal mining and power generation are no longer profitable because of market price pressure, and continued energy dependence is leading to new energy models.

Scientists and researchers agree that it is key to find new supply routes centred on renewables, both to stop depending on countries such as Russia and to resume the commitment to meeting climate change targets, now pushed into the background.

Lowering prices, guaranteeing supply and contributing to the development and roll-out of renewables. Three goals that will force a change in energy consumption habits among governments and consumers.

Cases

01 / 03

Zorraquino spotlights

  1. 01

    Any place or element can be used as a laboratory to test new battery charging systems and electricity generators.

  2. 02

    Solar panels are starting to blend into the environment and consumer routines, seeking functionality beyond aesthetics.

  3. 03

    Rising prices sharpen people's ingenuity as they explore new ways to stay warm.

Zorraquino playlist

  • Moscú Está HeladoEsplendor Geométrico · 2012
  • Cambio ClimáticoLos Summers · 2013
  • Que Calor ! - EditThe Limiñanas / Laurent Garnier · 2021

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