Fundamental Concepts of Energy Transition and Theoretical Basis of Integration of Renewable Energy Sources

Today’s energy transition is a paradigmatic change from fossil fuel-based systems to those centered on renewable energy sources. This transformation spans technological, economic, social, and ethical dimensions and is deeply rooted in the philosophical principles of sustainable development. Ethical considerations are gaining prominence, particularly through the emerging frameworks of energy ethics and energy justice. These approaches emphasize the moral responsibilities of governments, corporations, and individuals toward both the environment and future generations. Historically, concepts such as ecological modernization and intergenerational justice have shaped the discourse, reinforcing the need for equitable and responsible energy governance. However, despite these guiding ideals, many dominant actors such as international oil companies within the global energy sector do not consistently prioritize the principles of the common good. In practice, the energy transition is often hindered by entrenched interests, stakeholder conflicts, and the prioritization of short-term corporate gains over longterm societal benefits. This paper analyzes the fundamental theoretical foundations underlying the energy transition and the integration of renewable energy sources into existing energy systems, with particular attention to the role of international oil and gas companies. It argues that ensuring a just and effective transition requires a rethinking of corporate strategies through the lens of justice, sustainable development, and ethical responsibility toward future generations. Based on theoretical analysis, the author demonstrates that a successful energy transformation entails not merely a technological shift, but institutional change, reassessment of values, and a long-term commitment to sustainability. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of reconciling economic and environmental priorities through innovation, stakeholder engagement, and ethical governance. In doing so, it offers a comprehensive theoretical framework for scholars and practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of energy transition in the 21st century. demonstrates that a successful energy transformation entails not merely a technological shift, but institutional change, reassessment of values, and a long-term commitment to sustainability. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of reconciling economic and environmental priorities through innovation, stakeholder engagement, and ethical governance. In doing so, it offers a comprehensive theoretical framework for scholars and practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of energy transition in the 21st century.

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Publication Details

Journal
Ideas and Ideals
Published
2025-09-26
DOI
https://doi.org/10.17212/2075-0862-2025-17.3.1-224-239
Primary Topic
Global Energy Security and Policy
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Fundamental Concepts of Energy Transition and Theoretical Basis of Integration of Renewable Energy Sources

Polina Liubomirova
Ideas and Ideals
Global Energy Security and Policy
article

Fundamental Concepts of Energy Transition and Theoretical Basis of Integration of Renewable Energy Sources

Polina Liubomirova
article en

Abstract

Today’s energy transition is a paradigmatic change from fossil fuel-based systems to those centered on renewable energy sources. This transformation spans technological, economic, social, and ethical dimensions and is deeply rooted in the philosophical principles of sustainable development. Ethical considerations are gaining prominence, particularly through the emerging frameworks of energy ethics and energy justice. These approaches emphasize the moral responsibilities of governments, corporations, and individuals toward both the environment and future generations. Historically, concepts such as ecological modernization and intergenerational justice have shaped the discourse, reinforcing the need for equitable and responsible energy governance. However, despite these guiding ideals, many dominant actors such as international oil companies within the global energy sector do not consistently prioritize the principles of the common good. In practice, the energy transition is often hindered by entrenched interests, stakeholder conflicts, and the prioritization of short-term corporate gains over longterm societal benefits. This paper analyzes the fundamental theoretical foundations underlying the energy transition and the integration of renewable energy sources into existing energy systems, with particular attention to the role of international oil and gas companies. It argues that ensuring a just and effective transition requires a rethinking of corporate strategies through the lens of justice, sustainable development, and ethical responsibility toward future generations. Based on theoretical analysis, the author demonstrates that a successful energy transformation entails not merely a technological shift, but institutional change, reassessment of values, and a long-term commitment to sustainability. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of reconciling economic and environmental priorities through innovation, stakeholder engagement, and ethical governance. In doing so, it offers a comprehensive theoretical framework for scholars and practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of energy transition in the 21st century. demonstrates that a successful energy transformation entails not merely a technological shift, but institutional change, reassessment of values, and a long-term commitment to sustainability. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of reconciling economic and environmental priorities through innovation, stakeholder engagement, and ethical governance. In doing so, it offers a comprehensive theoretical framework for scholars and practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of energy transition in the 21st century.

Ideas and IdealsVol. 17(3-1)
Openalex Percentile: Top 58%
Global Energy Security and Policy
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