Net-Zero policymakers seem oblivious that while electricity generation follows oil in the energy hierarchy, renewable sources only provide unreliable electricity, not the products and fuels essential for supporting the global population. Petrochemicals from crude oil, coal, or natural gas are crucial for manufacturing everything that requires electricity - including food production, utilities, manufacturing, transportation, communication, and all electrical equipment.

I've been thinking about the new norm of hybrid and home working, and it somehow reminded me of "The Machine Stops" by E. M. Forster, 1909. The story depicts a future where individuals live underground, isolated, and rely on technology to fulfil their interpersonal, communication and physical needs.