It’s time for Energy Advocacy

In the last year, Energy has reached the forefront of political, corporate and social discourse around the world. In Europe we have been living in the “energy crisis”, with rising energy prices leading to what we now know as the “cost of living crisis”. The Energy Trilemma of Energy Security, Energy Equity and Environmental Sustainability has become more relevant than ever with countries simultaneously facing affordability challenges, energy supply challenges and difficult decisions with regards to addressing these challenges whilst the climate emergency continues to increase the urgent need for the energy transition. Each crisis is a crisis because we as a society were not ready. Without preparedness and progress we will not be ready next time. How can we change the narrative, regaining control to achieve resilience and acceleration in the energy transition: advocacy. Your voice matters.

I was humbled to see my face on the front page of Het Financieele Dagblad (Dutch Financial Times) weekend edition as they named me as one of the 50 talents of 2023, alongside inspiring pioneers from music, art, start-ups, healthcare and more. They stated that sustainability impact was the reason for my selection. All I did was advocate, using my voice in the workplace to ensure delivery and quality of a decarbonisation roadmap to reduce Croda’s operations emissions by 50% from 2018 to 2030 and using it in industry platforms such as the World Energy Council and the World Energy Congress to educate and encourage others to take similar actions for the energy transition. Workplace activism can often be seen negatively but it doesn’t have to be. I’m part of an initiative founded by Veronique Swinkels (Worldconnectors Board Member) and Tessa Wernink (Fairphone Co-founder) called “The Undercover Activist”, where we help businesses and professionals see that “Activism is love made visible”. It’s speaking out, taking action and creating change for things you care about – you can help companies live up to their purposes.

That is why in April 2024, I will be taking my energy advocacy to the 26th World Energy Congress in my hometown of Rotterdam. I’m excited to invite you to join me on the #RoadtoCongress to advocate for Redesigning Energy for People and Planet. I have some ideas, maybe you do too. Together we can create the transparency, build trust and deliver the transformation needed. Our advocacy makes change happen. Will you be a part of making that change?

Thaddeus Anim-Somuah

Board Member Future Energy Leaders – World Energy Council