Cleantech Revolution

Why the Energy Transition Is Inevitable and Exponential

The world is on the cusp of a profound transformation in how we produce and consume energy. Despite the gloomy headlines and apparent slow progress on climate action, a quiet revolution is underway that promises to reshape our energy landscape faster than most people realize. This is the central thesis of a groundbreaking new report, "The Cleantech Revolution," from RMI, which argues that the transition to clean energy is not only inevitable but also exponential.

The Power of Exponential Change

At the heart of this revolution are three key drivers: renewables, electrification, and efficiency. These technologies are not following the linear growth patterns of traditional commodities but are instead riding exponential curves akin to those seen in the tech sector.

Photo by Mike Von on Unsplash

Consider solar energy. Global solar generation has been doubling every 2-3 years, while battery storage capacity has been doubling annually. This rapid growth has led to dramatic cost reductions, with cleantech prices falling by up to 80% in just a decade. Capital is flooding into the sector, with annual investment approaching the trillion-dollar mark.