Global Capitalism and the Energy Crisis: Challenges and Opportunities Associated with a Transition to Renewables

Since the Industrial Revolution, fossil fuels have provided a cheap and efficient source of energy. Reliance on fossil fuels, especially oil, supported economic growth under capitalism but also has led to climate change. As peak oil approaches, a transition towards renewable sources of energy is mandatory for ensuring future prospects of development and for reducing the effects of climate change. The transition to renewable energy sources could be made smoother if the subsidies provided to the fossil fuel industry were phased out and governments provided incentives for initial investment, financing for research and development, and direct investment. With reference to renewables, a transition to hydroelectricity, in particular small-scale hydropower plants, could decrease long-term energy costs, aid in providing a secure energy supply and reduce the effects of climate change. Energy and natural resources are a critical component of any economy, and how they are used directly influences economic growth