Thin films for the energy transition. The energy transition encompasses a large number of measures that are necessary for the long-term stabilization of the climate. At the same time, the topic of energy transition is associated not only with economic and social challenges, but also with a multitude of technological challenges. In the three pillars – utilization of regenerative energies – energy storage – efficient energy use – surfaces and interfaces, as well as the possibilities of influencing properties through thin-film technologies, play a decisive role in the effectiveness of a wide variety of solutions. The article highlights some applications for solar and wind power utilization, as well as storage technologies from the perspective of surface and interface properties. © 2022, John Wiley and Sons Inc. All rights reserved.