The energy transition is one of the most significant transformations of the 21st century. While it is often associated with climate action and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, its implications reach much further, affecting international security, economic competitiveness, industrial development and social justice.
To explore these interconnected challenges, Brújula Global, the podcast of the Department of International Relations at Comillas Pontifical University, recently hosted Pedro Linares, Professor at ICAI and Director of the International Doctoral School at Comillas. Hosted by Javier Merchán, Professor at the International Relations Department, and Jaime Villaverde, Professor at Comillas and Co-Lead for Transforming Curricula at EUPeace, the episode examines how the energy transition is reshaping security, geopolitics, industrial development and social cohesion across Europe and beyond.
An internationally recognised expert in energy economics and sustainability, Linares has dedicated much of his academic career to studying energy systems, climate policy and the societal implications of the transition towards a low-carbon economy. During the conversation, he shared insights into the opportunities and challenges that decarbonisation presents for Spain, Europe and the wider international community.
The conversation sought to make a complex scientific and policy topic accessible to a broad audience, demonstrating how research on energy systems can help citizens better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Why is the energy transition necessary?
According to Linares, the concept of energy transition cannot be understood without considering the need for decarbonisation. The widespread use of fossil fuels has contributed significantly to the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, driving climate change and its consequences, including rising temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events and growing inequalities between regions and populations.
However, reducing emissions is not the only reason for transforming energy systems. The transition also presents an opportunity to reduce dependence on fossil-fuel-producing countries, limit exposure to volatile energy prices, improve air quality and strengthen long-term energy security. As Linares notes, many of the arguments in favour of renewable energy emerged not only from climate concerns but also from the search for greater resilience following the oil crises of the 1970s.
Energy and geopolitics in a changing world
One of the central themes of the podcast is the relationship between energy and geopolitics. Throughout modern history, access to energy resources has shaped international relations and global power structures. The transition towards renewable energy is changing these dynamics, creating new opportunities while also generating new forms of dependency.
The discussion highlights the growing importance of technological supply chains and manufacturing capacity. While renewable energy can reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, Europe remains highly dependent on imports of key technologies such as solar panels, batteries and other clean-energy components, many of which are currently produced in China.
Linares argues that this challenge should not be viewed solely as a vulnerability but also as an opportunity for Europe to strengthen its industrial base, foster innovation and develop strategic capacities in emerging technologies.
Spain’s strengths and challenges
The podcast also explores Spain’s position within the energy transition. Spain benefits from significant renewable resources, particularly solar and wind energy, and has become one of the European leaders in renewable electricity generation. The country’s hydroelectric capacity also provides important flexibility for integrating variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system.
Nevertheless, Linares stresses that electricity represents only part of total energy consumption. While the decarbonisation of the power sector has advanced considerably, many challenges remain. Industry, heavy transport and other energy-intensive activities continue to rely heavily on fossil fuels, making their decarbonisation one of the major tasks of the coming decades.
Europe and the Green Deal
The podcast also considers the role of the European Union in advancing the transition. Europe has positioned itself as a global leader in climate policy through initiatives such as the European Green Deal, seeking not only to reduce emissions but also to promote innovation, economic growth and technological leadership.
Yet the discussion recognises the difficulties involved. Fragmented markets, higher energy costs and strong international competition have limited Europe’s ability to fully capitalise on some of the opportunities created by the transition. According to Linares, strengthening the Single Market and supporting innovation will be essential if Europe is to maintain its competitiveness while pursuing ambitious climate goals.
The role of public policy
A key message emerging from the discussion is that the energy transition is not a process that can be left entirely to market forces. Unlike previous energy transitions, which were often driven by technological and economic advantages alone, today’s transition is closely linked to political decisions aimed at reducing emissions and addressing climate change.
For this reason, public policies play a crucial role in shaping investment, supporting innovation and creating the conditions needed for new technologies to develop. At the same time, policymakers must balance multiple objectives, including economic efficiency, technological progress, fiscal sustainability and social acceptance. The conversation emphasises the importance of flexible and adaptive policies capable of responding to rapidly evolving technologies and market conditions.
Ensuring a just transition
Perhaps the most important message of the episode concerns the social dimension of decarbonisation. Technological solutions alone will not guarantee success. The transition must also be socially sustainable and perceived as fair.
The discussion highlights that some sectors, regions and social groups may face greater difficulties adapting to change. Workers in fossil-fuel-dependent industries, countries whose economies rely heavily on oil revenues and households with lower incomes may be disproportionately affected if adequate support mechanisms are not put in place. The example of access to electric vehicles and household renewable energy technologies illustrates how the benefits of the transition can be unevenly distributed if inequalities are not addressed.
Linares argues that maintaining public support requires honest communication about both the benefits and the costs of the transition. Citizens must understand why change is necessary, while policymakers must ensure that vulnerable groups are protected and that no one is left behind. Without broad social acceptance, even technically feasible climate policies may struggle to succeed.
Looking Ahead: Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Energy Future
The discussion concludes that the success of the energy transition will depend not only on technological innovation, but also on societies’ ability to navigate complex economic, political and social challenges. Decarbonising energy systems requires new technologies and investments, but also public trust, informed decision-making and policies that ensure the benefits of the transition are shared fairly across society.
The issues explored in this episode—including climate action, energy security, social cohesion, democratic governance and international cooperation—reflect many of the challenges currently shaping Europe’s future. By bringing academic expertise into the public sphere, Pedro Linares helps connect research with real-world concerns, offering accessible insights into a transformation that will affect citizens, industries and policymakers alike.
Through initiatives such as Brújula Global, Comillas Pontifical University contributes to fostering informed debate on critical global challenges and encourages dialogue between academia and society. Such conversations are essential for building a shared understanding of the opportunities and trade-offs involved in the transition towards a more sustainable, resilient and equitable future.
🎥This interview is conducted in Spanish. To view English subtitles, open the video directly in the YouTube player and turn on English captions.