ISETS Thought Series

Introduction to the Energy Transition Thought Series

The Energy Transition Thought Series is an initiative by the International Society for Energy Transition Studies (ISETS) aimed at fostering dialogue, sharing insights, and advancing actionable solutions in the energy transition field. This series serves as a platform for contributions from academics, policymakers, industry leaders, practitioners, NGOs, and other stakeholders.

It encompasses three distinct types of documents, each designed to fulfill a unique purpose:

  1. Policy Briefs (Energy Transition Insights): Comprehensive and solution-focused documents offering evidence-based recommendations.
  2. Opinion Articles (Voices on Energy Transition): Persuasive and thought-provoking articles presenting personal or professional perspectives.
  3. Commentaries and Reflections (Energy Transition Perspectives): Concise, balanced analyses of timely developments or trends.

This series contributes to the global knowledge base on energy transition and supports the mission of ISETS to promote sustainable energy systems through interdisciplinary collaboration and international dialogue.

Detailed Descriptions of Document Types

  1. Policy Briefs (Energy Transition Insights)

Policy Briefs are concise yet comprehensive documents intended to inform and guide decision-makers. They provide actionable recommendations on specific challenges or opportunities in energy transition, based on thorough research and analysis.

Purpose: To offer practical, evidence-based solutions for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders.
Characteristics:

  • Focused on a specific problem or opportunity.
  • Structured for clarity, with sections like Executive Summary, Background, Analysis, and Recommendations.
  • Includes visuals such as charts or infographics to convey complex information effectively.
    Length: 1,500–3,000 words.
    Ideal Topics:
  • Renewable energy deployment strategies.
  • Policy frameworks for energy efficiency.
  • Measures for just transition in coal-dependent economies.
  1. Opinion Articles (Voices on Energy Transition)

Opinion Articles provide a space for contributors to share their perspectives, often addressing controversial or innovative issues in energy transition. These articles are engaging and aim to inspire dialogue and debate.

Purpose: To present personal or professional viewpoints, fostering critical thinking and discussion.
Characteristics:

  • Clear stance on an energy transition topic.
  • Logical and evidence-backed arguments.
  • Relatable, often incorporating personal anecdotes.
  • Concludes with a call to action or a thought-provoking question.
    Length: 800–1,200 words.
    Ideal Topics:
  • Ethical dilemmas in energy policies.
  • The role of innovation in sustainability.
  • Challenges faced by communities during energy transitions.
  1. Commentaries and Reflections (Energy Transition Perspectives)

Commentaries and Reflections are concise analyses of current events, trends, or developments in the energy transition sector. They provide balanced and forward-looking perspectives.

Purpose: To contextualize and analyze significant events or trends.
Characteristics:

  • Timely and relevant.
  • Insightful, focusing on implications and broader significance.
  • Written for accessibility to both specialists and non-specialists.
  • Offers forward-looking observations or potential outcomes.
    Length: 500–800 words.
    Ideal Topics:
  • Analysis of new energy policies or agreements.
  • Reflections on technological advancements in renewable energy.
  • Observations on public sentiment regarding energy transition.

Comparison Table of Document Types

Aspect Policy Briefs (Energy Transition Insights) Opinion Articles (Voices on Energy Transition) Commentaries and Reflections (Energy Transition Perspectives)
Purpose Provide actionable, evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders on specific energy transition challenges or solutions. Persuade or advocate a viewpoint on energy transition topics, sparking debate and discussion. Analyze or reflect on a recent development, trend, or issue in energy transition with a balanced perspective.
Tone Professional and neutral, focused on data and practical solutions. Passionate and argumentative, yet grounded in evidence. Insightful and reflective, maintaining objectivity and balance.
Focus Specific challenges, opportunities, or solutions related to energy transition, with a focus on policy implications. Broad thematic or controversial issues in energy transition, often engaging personal perspectives. Timely or specific events, policies, technologies, or trends in energy transition.
Use of Personal Input Relies on data, case studies, and analysis, avoiding personal anecdotes. Frequently includes personal or anecdotal insights to make the argument relatable. Focuses on objective analysis, avoiding personal anecdotes.
Length 1,500–3,000 words. 800–1,200 words. 500–800 words.
Audience Policymakers, industry leaders, NGOs, and professionals. General public, decision-makers, and academic readers. Mixed readership, including specialists and non-specialists.
Structure Title, Executive Summary, Background, Analysis, Recommendations, References. Title, Introduction, Argument Body, Conclusion. Title, Introduction, Reflection/Discussion, Conclusion.

Submission Guidelines

General Requirements

  • Language: Submissions must be in English.
  • Formatting: Include clear headings, subheadings, and visuals (for Policy Briefs) where applicable.
  • Originality: Submissions must be original and unpublished.
  • Review Process: Contributions will be reviewed by ISETS editorial experts to ensure quality and alignment with the series’ objectives.

Copyright and Access

  • The copyright of all submissions remains with the authors.
  • The Energy Transition Thought Series operates under an open-access model, allowing free dissemination and use of the published materials to maximize their impact.

Submission Process

  1. Register as an ISETS Associate Member (free of charge) via the ISETS website.
  2. Prepare your document following the specific guidelines provided for each type of output.
  3. Submit via the website or email your contribution to publications@isets.org.

Deadlines
Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. For thematic publications or event-specific inclusions, contributors will be notified of deadlines.