The pictures of Japan prompt us to rethink the basis of our energy policies. The evidence disproves a number of hypotheses and arguments relating to a peaceful use of nuclear energy. The question about the macro perspective of sustainable energy supply, the role of renewable energies and of energy efficiency is raised once more.

The energy system of the future should be intelligent, flexible, low-risk, independent, efficient, zero-emission, and comfortable. But how will we design the future energy systems? What are the basic quality criteria for the future sustainable energy supply? How do we evaluate economy and risk? Which role does energy efficiency play in this context?

The question arises on the one hand side, how renewables are seen from a macroeconomic perspective and how on the other hand every single person, citizen, forest owner, hydro power plant operator, solar service and energy provider, network operator, legislative authority, or researcher can contribute to reaching the global goals. This will only succeed on a grand scale. In view of the necessary investments in the billions and the related restructuring as well as the technological innovations the decisions that are awaiting us today can be described as historical.