---
title: "Stop Energy"
url: https://perrotta.dev/2026/06/stop-energy/
last_updated: 2026-06-14
---


[RFC: What is Stop Energy?](https://web.archive.org/web/20260217063113/http://www.userland.com/whatIsStopEnergy) by Dave Winer:

> Suppose someone, call him Mr. A, has an idea that he believes is ready to
> deploy, or is requesting comments as he is getting ready to deploy. So he
> posts an RFC, usually on a mail list or a website, in the hope that people
> will spot a problem and help him figure out a solution; or find no problems
> and co-develop an implementation, or develop a compatible implementation. In
> theory, the Internet is a collegial environment, with lots of people who want
> to do new stuff, where one should expect to get this kind of help.
>
> In this scenario, A is a proponent of Forward Motion. In all likelihood,
> instead of getting help, A will encounter Stop Energy, reasons why he can't or
> shouldn't be allowed to do what he proposes.
>
> Stop Energy is not reasoned, it never takes into account the big picture, it
> is the mirror image of Forward Motion. In the Stop Energy model, everyone, no
> matter how small their stake in a technology, has the power to veto. Nothing
> ever gets done, and people who want to move forward are frustrated in every
> attempt to move. Unfortunately, Stop Energy is the rule, not the exception.