Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 07/2014

The Global Energy Conversation (Part 3)

January 2013

Economist Intelligence Unit

Abstract

It seems apparent that innovation will be required across the energy sector in order to help it meet the twin challenges of rising energy demand and climate change. But seemingly well-meaning policies can turn out to have an adverse effect on innovation and the world’s current economic woes may limit the pace of investment. In which energy sources is innovation most needed? How can governments get the policy framework right for stimulating innovation, and then put it to work? Research carried out for this report highlights technologies and policies to meet the world’s energy challenges.