As with turning a ship, a nation’s energy infrastructure transition requires both forward motion and careful steering. Hidden icebergs must be avoided. Today, countries around the world are planning their route through turbulent waters of fuels and towards sustainable energy sources. The shift doesn’t simply involve switching to wind energy; it involves a major change in how we use, produce and think about our National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR).

What does a roadmap look like exactly? Imagine a large circuit board, which has many pathways. Each pathway represents different strategies that countries can use to shift away from carbon heavy industries and towards greener alternatives. It’s a complicated journey, with zigzags as well loops and switchbacks. This reflects the delicate balance between economics needs, technology advancements, environmental goals and social implications.

Let’s begin by discussing the replacement of outdated infrastructures. As with renovating an outdated home, there’s charm, but wiring is at risk. It requires a thorough overhaul. The power grids of countries must be upgraded or completely replaced to allow them to accommodate a variety of intermittent renewable energies such as solar and winds.

Then there is the aspect of investment. Investing in renewables involves more than just purchasing solar panels. You’re planting a garden. You’ll have to care for it, see it grow, and even fight off some pests.

On this highway, energy efficiency is a key lane. The goal is to not only generate more energy but to also use it less. It can be as big as improving public transport systems in order to reduce the use of personal vehicles. Or as small as fixing a leaky classroom window to cut down on heating costs.

Public-private partnership plays a key role here as well. Imagine a group of neighbors who get together at a blockparty to discuss community issues, and they end up funding local projects. These collaborations drive innovation, investment and pooling of resources to achieve common goals.

Taking a look at the user’s end, societal acceptance is a huge factor. You can lead the horse to the water, but it won’t drink. The same is true for renewable energy. You can have the technology in place, but if the people aren’t interested, it will be like a leaf falling from a tree without anyone to see it. Public awareness campaigns and incentives could help to close the gap.

Technology is buzzing about hydrogen’s potential to decarbonize sectors that are hard to do, such as heavy manufacturing or long-distance transportation. Imagine hydrogen, the elusive and powerful chameleon. It can transform industries without a lot of fuss.

At the global level, there is no energy island. Harmonizing policies for energy across national borders is a collective responsibility. Imagine it as synchronizing flash mob dance moves.