Is Renewable Energy Enough to Save the Planet, or Humanity?

This contribution argues that the ‘green transition’ towards net zero carbon emissions is not possible within a capitalist market‐oriented framework, and requires significant public intervention. But simply changing the energy mix towards renewables will not be sufficient to save the planet or humanity: more fundamental changes in economic and social arrangements are needed. Poverty elimination, massive reductions in inequality, empowering women and other marginalized groups, and transforming food systems, in addition to the shift to greater use of electricity generated through renewable sources, will all be vital.