Scenarios assess alternative energy pathways

The global economy and energy system are at a critical juncture, characterized by great uncertainty. Nations and Parties to the UNFCCC are currently called on to collectively achieve ambitious emission reductions by accelerating action on an unprecedented scale in all key sectors, including energy, transport, buildings, and industry. At the same time, there are pressing needs to alleviate energy poverty and improve energy access and living conditions for people in many developing countries. To model these challenges, alternative scenarios were developed. These scenarios indicate that alternatives to the mainstream mitigation pathways focusing on renewables exist. Crucially, different pathways have varying socio-economic implications for different economies, with some routes likely unfairly impacting energy-exporting developing countries.