Transport sector has highest energy demand compared to other sectors such as heating/cooling and power, while still relying heavily on fossil fuels. Its share of renewable energy among end-use sectors stands at by far the lowest at 3.7% . Therefore, in view of the transport sector’s importance for a global energy transition to a sustainable energy system and to be on track to meet global climate goals for 2030 and 2050, renewables uptake in the transport sector is called for.

The energy transition to renewables in transport is predominantly going to be through electrification for zero emissions, especially when it comes to road transport. For instance, electrically charged passenger vehicle will account for 31% of global vehicle fleet . As such, manufacturers are increasingly under pressure to produce low or zero emission vehicles. On the political side, when expanding the use of renewables in the transport sector, the primary focuses of policy makers have been to improve local air pollution and to meet greenhouse gas emissions targets. In this context, a wide range of policy measures are being taken place: Design ambitious transport targets, support charging infrastructure, introduce financial incentives for electric vehicles, adjust regulation and standardization, reform public procurements .

Yet, it has been pointed out that many countries lack a holistic strategy for decarbonizing transport. The rail, aviation and maritime transport sectors continued to receive less policy attention than the road transport sector . Other barriers to mass adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles include lack of infrastructure (charging station) and public support (regulatory incentives, setting ambitious policy targets, etc.). In addition, for an expected acceleration of electrification of the transport sector, technology innovation and price competitiveness that support energy transition in transport should be expected.

However, the responsibility of adopting sustainable energy system in the transport sector does not and cannot fall on one country or one government alone. A global energy shift towards renewables needs holistic, innovative, sustainable, and responsive policies that can only be implemented effectively with international cooperation.

In this regard, this online event will help participants to raise awareness on the current status of renewable energy portfolio in the transport sector and the potential of energy transition to achieve sustainable development goals. The workshop will also provide a platform for participants to share and exchange their good practices and challenges regarding the renewable energy and transport policy.