Amory Lovins Honored as Global Energy Transition Faces Crossroads

A pioneer’s award spotlights the **energy** revolution’s progress—and its fractures. Can markets alone drive the transition, or do policies hold the key?

, and Administrator

2025 November 13 . 5:01 PM

1 min read

In this image on both sides there are buildings, electric poles. There are few vehicles parked in... — In this image on both sides there are buildings, electric poles. There are few vehicles parked in front of the buildings. In the middle there is a road.

Amory Lovins Honored as Global Energy Transition Faces Crossroads

Renowned energy expert Amory Lovins was honoured with the German Order of Merit in 2016 for his lifelong commitment to promoting the global energy transition. Meanwhile, the international community continues to grapple with differing views on the path forward, as seen at the recent Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue.

The term 'Energiewende', or energy transition, has gained global traction, with the Polish deputy energy minister discussing priorities for a grid 'wende', transport 'wende', and market 'wende'. Lovins, who received the prestigious award, acknowledged the grassroots commitment to the energy transition but criticised the 2014 amendments for shifting power back to large energy companies.

The dialogue, attended by over 1,300 people, revealed a range of opinions among decision-makers. While markets are currently driving wind and solar growth worldwide, continued growth without policy support at high penetration levels is uncertain. Some governments, like Vietnam's, are planning to shift away from coal power towards renewables and natural gas. However, not all governments are committed to a renewables-only path, with natural gas and nuclear power also being considered.

Transportation is becoming a more significant focus in Germany's energy transition, with potential opportunities arising from the Dieselgate scandal.

The global energy transition continues to evolve, with the 'Energiewende' gaining international recognition. Despite differing views among decision-makers, the commitment to a sustainable future remains strong, as demonstrated by Amory Lovins' award and the growing attendance at the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue.