To make the transition to a decarbonized energy system requires not only acceptability of clean technologies, but also that the transition has to have social legitimacy. Legitimacy or the “right thing to do” derives from embedded norms and beliefs of society. This discussion investigates legitimation problems of renewable energy, how those problems affect energy policymaking, and how the process differs between India and Australia. We compare the development of renewable energy in India and Australia, across contrasting developmental, cultural, and economic contexts, to better understand and theorize the requirements for an energy transition or decarbonization. Without legitimacy, the penetration of renewable energy is impeded and policies promoting renewable energy are not as effective. This comparison demonstrates that a broader set of issues involving environmental, social, and justice issues determine the legitimacy of a policy.