This study, produced by Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, presents the case for a desperately needed transformation in global energy supply to address the present crisis in the sector. With dependence on fossil fuels leading to widespread pollution and the acceleration of climate change, together with centralised production, distribution, and ownership structures benefitting a few while large parts of the world still do not have electricity, it is vital that radical reform be implemented as soon as possible. The answer, according to the authors, is a move toward 100 per cent of energy being derived through renewable means, via a decentralised and distributed network of locally managed energy supply, increased efficiency, and a reduction in consumption levels. The study is presented in a multi-paper format written by a collection of authors. First, the need for a global energy transformation is presented by way of context, before the present status of the energy transformation process is outlined using case studies from Ethiopia, Morocco, and Germany, who lead the way in Europe on renewable energy uptake. Next, Christiane Beuermann examines the multi-level dimension of energy transformation, looking at the international, inter-governmental (regional), national, and sub-national scales. Lukas Hermwille then goes into depth on the conflicting interests involved in the energy sector, outlining the potential winners and losers in an energy transformation, the issue of pushing renewable technology in countries rich in fossil fuel resources, and the pros and cons of nuclear power. The study makes clear that the barriers to energy transformation are rarely down to technical or knowledge limitations. Instead, long-established structures and powerful elites problematise the challenges of energy transformation in an effort to maintain the status-quo. To overcome these barriers, it is important that a broad alliance of civil society, politics, science, and industry work together to develop a convincing alternative and positive narratives and commit to implementing them against the inevitable resistance. The conclusion the study presents the view that there are two essential conditions for effective energy transformation which emerge from the study. Firstly, stakeholders should account for correlations between different design levels and the respective instruments, and secondly, that they need to be aware that successful implementation also depends on a long term paradigm shift occurring within energy transformation argumentations. The authors note the potential for change now, with examples of ways to implement change apparent at all levels of government in what could be termed an experimental phase of the transformation process. These narratives of change must be built upon and brought together in order to resonate sufficiently to inspire further synergies and developments.