Discourse on the energy transition and its impact on global energy policy

The relevance of the research topic is determined by the need for a balanced assessment and comprehensive analysis of the fourth energy transition and its features. The author examines the causes of the beginning of the transition and its political, economic, and social consequences. Sociopolitical features directly affecting the development of the energy transition and its pace are discussed in the article. Separately, the possible consequences of neglecting the economic foundations of the energy sector and replacing them with politically motivated decisions are explored. The research methodology includes the analysis of scientific publications by Russian and foreign authors, as well as logical and structural analysis. The use of a systemic approach allows for considering the energy transition as a single system with multiple interacting subsystems. The author concludes that the key factor and at the same time the main distinguishing feature of the fourth energy transition is political expediency. However, the author notes that substituting economic expediency with political expediency can lead to reduced energy accessibility worldwide, decreased investment, and social tension. Minimizing negative consequences is possible through harmonious and consistent development of the energy transition based on the use of market mechanisms.