Lessons from the history of technological change for clean energy scenarios and policies

This paper provides a synthesis of current knowledge on the patterns, drivers, and characteristics of historical energy technology transitions. This historical evidence is then compared to the treatment of energy system dynamics in the scenario analysis on climate mitigation. The paper concludes with a discussion of generic implications for clean energy and technology innovation policy. © 2011 International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis. Natural Resources Forum © 2011 United Nations.