Energy Transitions at a Crossroads: Balancing Growth, Decarbonization, and Development

Abstract

Can low- and middle-income countries meet human development imperatives while decommissioning fossil fuel infrastructure or avoiding further fossil fuel development? A high-level panel at Climate Week NYC 2024—moderated by Jackson Ewing and featuring executive in residence Alix Peterson Zwane alongside global investment leaders—attempted to address just that. Moving forward will require a new kind of bargain between developed and developing countries that increases state capacity for energy transitions in emerging markets while securing supportive commitments from wealthier countries. This path should be more than developed countries simply dictating the terms of development and should instead be locally led, demand-driven plans that reflect national priorities.