(1) Policy Definition

Energy transition is a matrix that define, for each pair of energy source and destination, which fraction of the current energy usage is likely to switch from source to destination, according to time.

The efficiency and feasability of transition from one source of energy to another is unknown. This is why it is represented in CCEM by a KNU (Key Known Unknown), which is a simulation parameter described here.

CCEM separates:

• The maximal possible transition, for each zone, and each pair of energy type, which is a KNU

• The actual transition which depends on the zone policy (hence the slider) and the importance of price difference when switching from a cheap enery to a more expensive one.

The first KNU is adressed with this slider. Energy transition is mostly about moving from fossil fuel to electricity. The "viscosity" of energy transition mentioned by Vaclav Smil represents the diffulty to switch energy usages to electricity ("electrification").
The policy aspect is addressed with this zone specific policy slider.

(2) What the slider in  G2WS does ?

The slider simply changes the level of investment made by a zone to accelerate energy transition.

• 50 is the default level, that is calibrated from the past and derived from expected country behaviors.

• A lower percentage will reduce the amont of effort (investment) whereas a percentage up to 100% will increase the effort by a factor up to 2.

When you change the slider, the control KPI is the toal amount spent on energy capacities, measured in T$ and summed from 2010 to 2100.