‘It’s possible! But for that to happen, we need to change course now’

In January, TU Delft celebrates its 180th anniversary. The theme of the anniversary will be the acceleration of the energy transition. In your view, where does Europe stand out in terms of its achievements in the energy transition? In what areas could there be improvements?

“The EU has demonstrated courage by no longer waiting for the rest of the world and taking a major step forward instead. Firstly, by agreeing that the EU will be climate neutral by 2050. Then by reaching agreement on a more ambitious target of at least 55% fewer emissions by 2030. Setting ambitious targets for decades in the future is relatively simple. The EU has gone further and is unique in the world in having an all-embracing step-by-step plan for the green transition, the so-called ‘Fit for 55’ package.

“Despite this, we must accelerate our energy diversification, especially if you consider developments in geopolitics and how certain powers don’t hesitate to use energy as a political weapon. Take hydrogen: too often the EU has lagged too far behind on technical developments and applications – when it comes to batteries and hydrogen, we need to work hard to maintain our leading position.”

Do you think we’re in a phase when we need all the different renewable energy options or that we should be starting to make hard choices in favour of solar, wind or hydrogen, for example?

“Each European member state is starting from a different position and is sovereign when it comes to its own energy mix. In some places in Europe, there is more sunshine and others have more potential for wind. Some countries are radically opposed to nuclear energy, whereas others are very much in favour. But, there is increasing consensus that coal has had its day. The importance of solar, wind, hydroelectric energy and hydrogen is also clear. In the long term, nuclear fusion may ultimately live up to its promise. New knowledge and discoveries will force us back to the drawing board. We need to continue to search, learn and adapt. In the meantime, we know that we will be able to use gas as we transition.”

Who really are the main players when it comes to enabling the energy transition? Politicians, scientists, businesses or citizens?

“It’s up to all of us. It’s up to governments to create the regulatory frameworks and the market to provide clarity and create a level playing field that will stimulate investment. Both public and private resources will be needed for further innovation. Citizens – and I’m specifically not talking about consumers here – also have their own responsibility, for example by changing old habits and replacing them with new, more sustainable ones. But, for that, it’s important that we are offered new accessible and affordable alternatives.

“I’d particularly like to pay tribute to young people, because without them, who took and are taking to the streets as part of  ‘Fridays for Future’, there would never even have been a Green Deal. Similarly, further innovation will be impossible without a robust science sector. And when the market sees that there are major profits to be made from a green transition, there’ll be no stopping it. In all of this, I always highlight one thing in particular: this time, the new economy needs to take everyone with it. Ultimately, we’re not doing this for the planet – she can save herself without humanity – we do this for the health, well-being and prosperity of all people.”

At times, politics can obstruct innovation, because of outdated rules that fail to keep pace with the changing world, so how can delay be prevented?

“Democracy has been designed to have the right checks and balances to ensure that no single political actor or party can suddenly take on all of the power. At a time of crisis, some people can find this a problem. Nevertheless, the European Green Deal has come about at the political speed of light thanks to unprecedented agreement between the European leaders, parliaments and public opinion.

“After all, there's always an alternative and effective way of achieving growth and innovation, increasing prosperity and tackling the climate crisis decisively and effectively whilst at the same time disregarding human rights, democracy and freedom. China is doing it in its own way. We’re determined to move forward faster, but to do so democratically and inclusively.”

You are a key figure in the fight against climate change. Was there a time in your career or personal life that shaped what motivates you in terms of this issue?

"I readily admit that I’m a late convert. When, much to my surprise, (now former) President Jean Claude Juncker made me responsible for sustainability at the start of my first term in the Commission, I quickly became acquainted with the topic and discovered how alarming the climate and biodiversity crises really are. That’s why I put them front and centre during the 2019 European elections. The Green Deal is partly the result of that. It actually became very personal just over a year ago when my first grandson Kees was born. He's now a year old, is able to surf along the furniture and happily throws everything he can onto the ground.

“By 2050, he will be 31 years old. Just think – if we’re successful in this transition, he’ll be living in a liveable world. The great thing is, it’s possible! But for that to happen, we need to change course now. It’s time for us to adopt the same attitude as our parents and grandparents had after World War II; they did everything they could to make life better for their children. It’s important for my generation to accept that we’re planting trees in the knowledge that we will never ourselves be able to enjoy their shade and shelter. That’s why I talk about citizens who are part of something bigger, rather than about consumers who need to make the most of the here and now.”

What message would you like to give to TU Delft students and staff with regard to the energy transition and climate change?