Decarbonisation Technology May 2026 Issue

The three pillars of the energy transition are decarbonisation, energy security, and affordability. Decarbonisation simply refers to the transition to renewable energy sources to reduce our net emissions of carbon dioxide to zero. A longer-term objective for decarbonisation is to draw down sufficient carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to stabilise our climate. In 2022, the Russian invasion of Ukraine prompted the EU to reduce its reliance on imports of Russian natural gas. This year, the disruption in oil supplies and damage to energy infrastructure across the Middle East as a result of the Israeli/US attacks on Iran have brought the issue of energy security to the attention of the public worldwide. However, energy security has been a concern since the original sanctions imposed on Iran in attempts to halt its uranium enrichment programme, initially by the US and then, from 2006, by the United Nations. The energy transition will result in a globally diversified energy system, with different regions and countries investing in domestic renewable resources. This should lead to both decarbonisation of energy supply and greater energy security. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; different regions will have different balances between solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and nuclear power as the primary sources for renewable electricity supply, supported by renewable biomass, waste to energy, and e-fuels for chemicals and transport fuels. The balance between domestic production and imports of oil and gas, refined fuels, and chemicals, from renewable and fossil sources, is already changing and will reshape the international trade in such energy carriers. Countries and regions that are leading the transition appear to be more resilient in both energy security and energy cost. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reported that in 2025, renewable energy additions comprised 85% of capacity expansions. However, it is important to note that many countries are now facing long waiting times for renewable projects to be connected to the electricity grid, indicating that grid readiness must be addressed. Hence, affordability is not just about low cost. Currently, the volatility in oil prices due to conflict in the Middle East impacts everyone. We are increasingly seeing the economic (and social) damage caused by global warming and changing weather patterns. In regions such as the EU, now in the fourth phase of its Emissions Trading System, the price of carbon (emissions) is factored in and has become a driver for the transition. In the short term, the investment required to build new energy infrastructure means renewable energy will be more costly. However, in the long run, a diversified energy system will deliver decarbonisation, improved energy security, and a more affordable energy system. We feature articles from companies, institutions, and collaborations that have developed and are now deploying the technologies needed in the transition. As it achieves scale, renewable energy is becoming more affordable. Robin Nelson

Managing Editor Rachel Storry

rachel.storry@emap.com tel +44 (0)7786 136440 Consulting Editor

Robin Nelson robin.nelson@ decarbonisationtechnology.com Sub-Editor Lisa Harrison lisa.harrison@emap.com Graphics Peter Harper Business Development Director Paul Mason info@decarbonisationtechnology.com tel +44 844 5888 771 Managing Director Richard Watts richard.watts@emap.com

EMAP, 10th Floor Southern House Wellesley Grove, Croydon CR0 1XG