Energy Transition Market (Global, 2024)
Introduction
The Energy Transformation Market is about to go through a major transformation, as economies increasingly focus on the reduction of carbon emissions and the lowering of CO2 emissions. This market consists of a wide range of technology and services that facilitate the shift from the old, fossil-based energy system to new, sustainable energy sources. Energy storage solutions, the spread of electric vehicles, and the integration of smart grids are key drivers of this transition. These innovations are in great demand, and as governments and companies commit to ambitious climate goals, the demand for them will grow further. This will bring new opportunities and challenges for the whole energy value chain. The interplay between the regulatory framework, technological developments, and consumer behaviour will be crucial in shaping the future dynamics of the Energy Transformation Market, and in the coming years it will be the most important area for strategic investment and planning.
PESTLE Analysis
- Political
- In 2024, the world political scene is favourable to the energy transition, with more than 130 countries having signed up for a zero-emissions policy by 2050. In the United States, the Inflation Reduction Act has just allocated $370 billion to support the development of clean energies, which will lead to a considerable investment in renewable energy. Moreover, the European Union has just launched the Green Deal, an industrial plan which aims to mobilise €250 billion in public and private investment to accelerate the transition to a sustainable economy.
- Economic
- The energy transition market is attracting considerable financial resources. By 2024, an estimated $1,500 billion will be invested in renewable energy projects worldwide. The growing attractiveness of these new energies is due to the lowering cost of these new systems, such as solar and wind energy, which has fallen by 89 and 70 per cent respectively since 2010. Also, the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that by 2030 the energy transition will create around 85 million jobs, thereby highlighting the economic potential of this sector.
- Social
- Among the public, awareness of the environment has grown considerably and, according to a survey, seventy-eight per cent of the American people are now in favor of increasing the investment in clean energy. This social change is reflected in the growing number of community-owned solar farms, which grew by twenty per cent in twenty-four and now provide access to clean energy for three million households. In addition, educational initiatives and grass-roots movements are promoting a culture of sustainability and accelerating the demand for energy transition solutions.
- Technological
- The transitional market for energy is based on technological developments. By 2024, global investment in clean energy will amount to $500 billion. The energy density of batteries has increased by a third, which means more efficient energy storage. The introduction of smart grids, with more than 200 million smart meters in place worldwide, is expected to improve the management of energy, and make it easier to integrate new sources of energy into the grid.
- Legal
- In 2024, many countries are introducing more stringent regulations to promote the energy transition, and more than fifty have introduced carbon taxes. The European Union's emissions trading scheme (ETS) has raised the price of carbon dioxide to 100 écus per tonne, incentivising companies to reduce their emissions. In many countries, the use of renewable energy is required to be fifty per cent by the year 2030, thus strengthening the legal framework for the transition to sustainable energy.
- Environmental
- The effects of the energy transition on the environment are increasingly evident. The reduction of global CO2 emissions by 15 per cent from the 2020 level to 2024 is expected. The increased use of renewable energy sources explains this reduction. The reduction of air pollution is also expected to result in a 25 per cent reduction in the number of illnesses caused by this air pollution, which would represent an annual health care savings of 200 billion dollars. This would show the health and environmental benefits of the energy transition.
Porter's Five Forces
- Threat of New Entrants
- The Energy Transition Market in 2024 faces a moderate threat of new entrants. High entry barriers and high capital costs are a deterrent to new players. The market is growing rapidly due to the growing demand for green energy. However, the market is dominated by well-established companies with substantial resources and know-how, which makes it difficult for new players to establish themselves.
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Suppliers in the Energy Transition Market generally have little bargaining power. The market is characterized by the large number of suppliers offering a wide variety of components and techniques, which limits the influence of any one supplier. Furthermore, the increasing availability of alternative components and techniques reduces the power of suppliers.
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- The Energy Transition Act is a very powerful tool for negotiating on the part of the buyers of energy. It gives them a choice of suppliers in the field of renewable energies, and they can easily change if their needs are not met. Competition will make the companies offer better prices, better services, more innovations to keep their customers.
- Threat of Substitutes
- The threat of substitutes in the energy transition market is moderate. The substitution of energy is a threat for the energy transition because, while the use of solar and wind energy is increasing, fossil fuels are still used and can be seen as substitutes. The growing importance of the environment and the regulations that support the use of clean energy are gradually reducing the attractiveness of these substitutes.
- Competitive Rivalry
- Competition in the Energy Transition Market is high. Many competitors are vying for a share of the market. The rapid growth of the sector has attracted both large established companies and new entrants, which has resulted in fierce competition. To differentiate their offerings, companies are constantly improving and developing new products and services.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
- Growing global commitment to reducing carbon emissions and climate change initiatives.
- Advancements in renewable energy technologies leading to increased efficiency and lower costs.
- Strong government support and incentives for clean energy projects and investments.
Weaknesses
- High initial capital investment required for renewable energy infrastructure.
- Intermittency and reliability issues associated with renewable energy sources.
- Limited public awareness and understanding of energy transition benefits.
Opportunities
- Expansion of electric vehicle markets driving demand for renewable energy.
- Emerging markets seeking sustainable energy solutions present new business opportunities.
- Technological innovations in energy storage and smart grid systems enhancing energy management.
Threats
- Geopolitical tensions affecting energy supply chains and market stability.
- Competition from traditional fossil fuel industries and their lobbying power.
- Regulatory changes and policy uncertainty impacting investment in renewable energy.
Summary
In 2024 the energy transition market is characterized by strong government support and technological developments that improve the economics of renewable energy. However, the high initial costs and the problems of reliability are still the main obstacles. Opportunities are mainly to be found in emerging countries and in the field of electric mobility. But there are also risks due to the political situation and competition from fossil fuels. Strategic orientation towards innovation and public education is of particular importance for converting strengths into opportunities and reducing risks.