Chapter 16 - Synthesis, conclusions, and recommendations

Abstract

The past 15 chapters provide an overview of the technological development and cost reductions achieved from a number of major energy technologies that are expected to be deployed as part of the ongoing energy transition. At the same time, these chapters highlight how future cost reductions and subsequent deployment of these technologies may shape the future mix of the electricity, heat, and transport sectors. In this final chapter, we discuss both methodological issues that appeared throughout the book and present a synthesis of the outlook of the technologies investigated. We discuss amongst others general lessons and recommendations for policy makers, industry, and academics, focusing on what technologies may require further policy support in the short term to have a major impact later on, which investments will be needed, and what scientific knowledge gaps remain for future research.