Opinion: 'Electric vehicles are more of a solution for the automotive industry than for the well-being of our planet'. I don't think so, and here's why...

I am sometimes asked whether the transition to electric vehicles are more of a solution for the automotive industry than for the well-being of our planet. In this article, I endeavor to shed some light on my opinion on electric vehicles and the role of democratising our energy supplies in the greater sceme of things. Because when we can generate our own energy anywhere in the world, of which there is plenty, geopolitics will ultimately appear much more of an amicable exercise than they are today.

In today's dynamic landscape, the global push to phase out fossil fuels is gaining momentum, driven by heightened awareness of environmental sustainability, energy security, and geopolitical instability. From conflicts over gas reserves off the coast of Gaza to Russia's actions in taking Europe hostage by gas supplies, and the ecological havoc wrought by fossil fuel extraction and CO2 emissions, the rationale for transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources is crystal clear. Additionally, this transition holds the promise of democratizing our energy supply and therefore strengthening our existing democracies by empowering individuals and communities to take control of their electricity generation and consumption.

At the heart of the matter lies the urgent need to address geopolitical turmoil exacerbated by fossil fuel dependencies. Conflict zones like the coast of Gaza, rich in natural gas reserves, become flashpoints, heightening tensions and hindering peace efforts. Similarly, Europe's vulnerability to Russian gas leverage underscores the risks associated with fossil fuel reliance. By pivoting towards renewable energy solutions, nations can reduce their susceptibility to geopolitical strife and bolster their energy resilience.

Photo by Levi Meir Clancy on Unsplash

Furthermore, the environmental toll exacted by fossil fuel activities underscores the imperative of transitioning to cleaner alternatives. From oil spills despoiling marine habitats to deforestation driven by resource extraction, ecosystems bear the brunt of fossil fuel exploitation. Transitioning to renewable energy sources offers a lifeline for beleaguered ecosystems, curbing habitat destruction and safeguarding biodiversity.

Additionally, the democratization of energy supply emerges as a linchpin of the transition, offering individuals and communities newfound autonomy and resilience. By embracing decentralized energy solutions like solar panels and microgrids, individuals can liberate themselves from the grip of centralized utilities, ushering in a new era of energy independence and community empowerment.

"The only stable state is the one in which all men are equal before the law."

Aristotle

"The only stable state is the one in which all men are equal before the law." This statement by Aristotle underscores the fundamental principle of equality under the law as a cornerstone of stability in society. However, when examining the contemporary world, it becomes evident that energy dependence on fossil fuels often undermines this principle and exacerbates inequality, leading to conflicts rooted in post-colonial legacies. And in this context we might as well replace 'state' by 'world', right?

The reliance on fossil fuels perpetuates a system where certain nations or groups have disproportionate control over energy resources, often at the expense of others. This creates economic disparities, environmental degradation, and social injustices, particularly in regions where fossil fuel extraction occurs.

In many post-colonial contexts, the exploitation of natural resources, including fossil fuels, has been a source of contention and conflict. The unequal distribution of wealth and power resulting from energy dependence contributes to social unrest, political instability, and even violence. Moreover, the environmental consequences of fossil fuel extraction disproportionately affect marginalized communities, further exacerbating existing inequalities.

Furthermore, the global energy landscape is marked by geopolitical tensions and power struggles fueled by competition for access to fossil fuels. This competition can lead to conflicts, both overt and covert, as nations vie for control over strategic resources, pipelines, and shipping routes.

In essence, energy dependence on fossil fuels serves as a barrier to achieving true equality before the law and perpetuates a cycle of inequality and conflict. Transitioning to sustainable and renewable energy sources offers a pathway towards greater equity, as it reduces reliance on finite resources and promotes a more balanced distribution of energy access and benefits. By addressing the root causes of inequality linked to fossil fuel dependency, societies can move closer to Aristotle's vision of a stable state where all individuals are equal under the law.

Moreover, the transition towards renewable energy presents a boon for economic growth, job creation, and innovation. As the renewable energy sector burgeons, it unlocks opportunities for entrepreneurship, technological advancement, and sustainable development. By investing in clean energy infrastructure and nurturing a green economy, nations can bolster their economic resilience while combating climate change.

Photo by Zbynek Burival on Unsplash

In summary, the impetus behind phasing out fossil fuels transcends environmental imperatives, touching upon geopolitical stability, ecosystem preservation, and socioeconomic empowerment. By embracing renewable energy technologies and fostering decentralized energy systems, we can democratize our energy supply, mitigate geopolitical risks, and chart a course towards a sustainable future. It's time for policymakers, businesses, and individuals to rally behind the energy transition, propelling us towards a greener, more equitable world.

It is precisely for these reasons that I have a deep belief in democratizing our own energy supply. Every household should ideally become its own small energy network that can feed back into the existing grid. Of course, I understand that such a transition revolves once again around resources and geopolitics, but the incentive for large-scale wars is significantly reduced. Because energy is abundant, all we need to do is stop burning fossil fuels to generate it.