The Night of Science is a block party for science and research. It is celebrated annually in Helsinki. The next event takes place on Thursday, 25 of January 2024. The program is made by many different organizations and actors and it offers science and research in many different forms. All events are free of charge! Join us for a lecture by Francesco Reda, Research Manager of the Industrial Energy and Hydrogen Business Area at VTT.
Decarbonization and clean energy transition: technology race or social change?
The transition towards clean energy represents a moment in human history, characterized by the complex interplay of technological advancement and social change, i.e. societal attitudes, policies, and behavioral shifts. Striking a balance between these factors is crucial for the success of de-carbonization.
Date: 25 January 2024 at 5:30pm
Language: English
Event location: Angelicum-Sali, Studium Catholicum
Ritarikatu 3B A 6 – 00170 Helsinki
The venue is not accessible: it is located on the 2nd floor and there are 13 steps to the lift. Capacity: 70 people.
Francesco Reda
Game-changing thinker providing valuable insights and guidance for leveraging disruptive innovation and R&I initiatives.
Currently, Research Manager of the Industrial Energy and Hydrogen Business Area at VTT.
With his extensive experience and expertise in R&D, innovation program design, and international ventures, he provides strategic guidance and support in navigating the complex innovation landscape.
Lately, he has been setting up international ventures by engaging funding instruments and corporate resources, facilitating the transfer of cutting-edge technologies and ideas to the market, supporting the process industries in the transformation towards circularity, ensuring sustainable practices and economic growth.
His efforts have focused on exposing researchers to the business world, bridging the gap between innovation and the market. He has also successfully managed contract research initiatives (specifically EU Funded projects), fostering collaboration and delivering impactful results in the field of energy-efficient buildings, smart cities, and the process industry.
He has the privilege of working closely with EU and national agencies to design Innovation Programs and define the EU Research and Innovation (R&I) agenda for energy-efficient buildings and the process industry, ensuring cutting-edge technologies and ideas are nurtured and implemented effectively in real life. His collaboration extends to driving progress initiatives as the European Construction, built environment, and energy-efficient building Technology Platform (ECTP), A.SPIRE (the European Association with the mandate of managing the Processes4Planet co-programmed Partnership), cooperating as an A.SPIRE delegate with Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (JU), the European Energy Research Alliance, and the IEA-EBC Programme (an international energy research and innovation program in the buildings and communities field) as Operating Agent of the Annex83 on Positive Energy district.
Over the last ten years, he has authored more than forty papers and articles, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in the sustainable transformation of society.
Decarbonization and clean energy transition: technology race or social change?
The global transition towards clean energy represents a pivotal moment in human history, characterized by a complex interplay between technological advancement and social change. This transition is undeniably driven by technological innovations aimed at providing alternatives to fossil fuel-based systems. However, the success of this transition is not solely determined by technological advancement but also depends on societal attitudes, policies, and behavioral shifts. Striking a delicate balance between these two elements is crucial because the ultimate success of the clean energy transition hinges on both technological innovation and widespread social transformation.
Technological Advancements: The Engine of Change
Technological advancements have been instrumental in the clean energy transition. Innovations in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and advanced battery storage, have become essential components of our energy landscape. These technologies have made it possible to harness clean energy from sources like the sun, wind, water, and nuclear reducing our reliance on fossil fuels that contribute to climate change and environmental degradation.
The development of clean energy technologies has not only expanded the possibilities for energy generation but has also made them more cost-effective and accessible to a wider audience. This has played a significant role in accelerating the clean energy transition, as cost parity with fossil fuels and improved efficiency make it a compelling choice for governments, industries, and individuals.
Societal Attitudes and Policy Frameworks
While technological advancements drive the clean energy transition, societal attitudes and policy frameworks hold equal importance. The way people perceive clean energy and the choices they make regarding energy consumption can either support or hinder the transition. Public support, awareness, and engagement are pivotal in shaping government policies and industry practices.
Government policies play a central role in incentivizing clean energy adoption, fostering research and development, and regulating emissions. Policies that encourage clean energy investment, promote energy efficiency, and set emission reduction targets are vital in steering society towards a sustainable energy future. Moreover, international agreements like the Paris Agreement underscore the significance of global cooperation and coordinated efforts to combat climate change.
Behavioral Shifts for a Clean Energy Transition
Behavioral shifts among individuals and communities are essential for a successful clean energy transition. Choices related to energy consumption, transportation, and waste management directly impact the environment. Encouraging practices like energy conservation, recycling, and the use of public transport can significantly reduce carbon footprints. However, it’s important to recognize that while behavioral shifts are crucial for a clean energy transition, they do not necessitate giving up all our habits that define us as social human beings. In many cases, our social interactions and connections are intertwined with our habits and practices. For instance, gathering with friends and family at restaurants or social events, travelling to discover the word and different cultures, can be an essential part of our social identity. Rather than abandoning such practices, we should seek ways to adapt them to align with clean energy goals. This can include choosing eco-friendly restaurants, hosting events with a focus on sustainability, or exploring alternative transportation options for group outings. In doing so, we can maintain our social connections while also contributing to a more sustainable world.
Innovation plays a significant role in finding solutions that allow us to preserve our social identities while embracing clean energy practices. Advancements in clean energy technologies, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy sources, can help us maintain our daily routines with lower environmental impact. Additionally, urban planning and infrastructure development can promote sustainable living by making clean transportation options more accessible and convenient.