As COP28 in Dubai comes to an end with no likely resolution to the arguments over phasing out fossil fuels, it’s another case of geopolitical and energy realities continuing to challenge the direction and pace of the energy transition and ultimately climate policy.

Despite no shortage of pledges to increase the use of zero-emission energy sources, especially renewables and nuclear, targeting hard-to-abate sectors, and funding promises to help developing countries deal with climate impacts, energy realities have overshadowed the climate negotiations.