One of the Energy Futures Lab’s strengths as a social innovation lab is holding the tensions and tradeoffs of the toughest energy challenges in a way that is generative, inclusive of opposing perspectives and makes space for creative solutions to arise. For example, the question, “How can we accelerate the transition to a net-zero future, while also staying true to our intentions of an inclusive and equitable transition?” could be seen as too cumbersome to be worth exploring. But the Energy Futures Lab prides itself on rising to the challenge this kind of complexity invites. On this question specifically, there has been a lot of learning this past year, and as you’ll discover in this report, much to celebrate as well.

Over the past 12 months, the Energy Futures Lab has been on the front lines of the energy transition alongside our network, and with them we have contributed to significant advances in a number of areas. These include battery metals, sustainable aviation fuels, Indigenous equity, youth-led innovations, community projects, future-fit hydrocarbons, and more.