Energy Technology Roadmaps: A Guide to Development and Implementation (2014 Edition)
Foreword
The International Energy Agency (IEA), established in 1974, focuses on ensuring energy security and promoting sustainable energy policies. The IEA has developed a series of roadmaps to address the urgent need for widespread deployment of various energy technologies. These roadmaps aim to facilitate the transition to a low-carbon future by identifying necessary steps and enabling governments, industries, and financial partners to make informed decisions.
Understanding Roadmaps
A roadmap is a strategic plan that outlines the steps needed to achieve specific goals and outcomes. It includes clear links between tasks and priorities over short, medium, and long-term periods. Effective roadmaps incorporate metrics and milestones to track progress toward the ultimate goals.
Key Elements of a Successful Roadmap
- Visioning: Establishing a clear vision and defining the desired future state.
- Development Process: The roadmap development process consists of four phases: planning and preparation, visioning, roadmap development, and implementation and adjustment.
- Tailoring: Adapting the roadmap process to fit local circumstances and objectives.
The Roadmap Development Process
- Planning and Preparation: Identifying key stakeholders, developing a technology baseline, and creating a situation analysis.
- Visioning: Outlining performance targets, pathways, priorities, and timelines for research, development, demonstration, and deployment (RDD&D).
- Roadmap Development: Developing indicators to track progress against roadmap milestones.
- Implementation and Adjustment: Regularly reviewing and adjusting the roadmap based on progress and feedback.
Tailoring the Roadmap Process
- Key Factors to Consider: Stakeholder identification, data and analysis, stakeholder involvement, and indicator development.
Acknowledgements
This publication was prepared by the IEA Energy Technology Policy Division. Key contributors include Cecilia Tam, Didier Houssin, and Jean-François Gagné. The publication acknowledges contributions from various IEA colleagues and external partners, including Enernex.
Conclusion
The IEA's roadmap process provides a structured approach to developing and implementing technology roadmaps, ensuring that efforts are aligned with national and global objectives. By facilitating collaboration and sharing of information, these roadmaps aim to accelerate the deployment of low-carbon energy technologies.
