Why Renewable Energy Matters

Why Renewable Energy Matters

In the face of growing environmental concerns and the escalating impacts of climate change, the global community is increasingly recognizing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions. Traditional energy sources, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, have powered industrial development and economic growth for centuries. However, their widespread use has come at a significant cost to the environment, contributing to pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and the depletion of finite natural resources.

As we strive to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and protect our planet for future generations, the transition to renewable energy has emerged as a critical priority. Renewable energy (RE) refers to energy generated from natural sources that are replenished on a human timescale, such as sunlight, wind, water, and geothermal heat. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy sources are abundant, sustainable, and have a much lower environmental impact.

Table of Contents

1. The Impact of Fossil Fuels
2. The Importance of Renewable Energy
3. Different Types of Renewable Energy
   3.1 Solar Energy
   3.2 Wind Energy
   3.3 Hydropower
   3.4 Bioenergy
   3.5 Geothermal Energy
   3.6 Tidal Energy
4. Conclusion
5. References

The Impact of Fossil Fuels

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 99% of the global population breathes polluted air, posing significant health risks. More than 13 million people die annually from avoidable environmental causes, including air pollution.

Burning fossil fuels is the primary source of dangerous amounts of nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter. In 2018, air pollution from fossil fuels resulted in an economic cost of $2.9 trillion, impacting healthcare systems and society at large. This translates to $8 billion per day.

Utilizing renewable energy sources like wind and solar can help address air pollution and health problems, in addition to combating climate change. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and release CO₂ into the atmosphere, renewable energy sources are available globally and have not yet been fully exploited. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) predicts that 90% of the world's energy could be produced from renewable sources by 2050.

The Importance of Renewable Energy

As we become more conscious of our environmental impact, the importance of transitioning from conventional to renewable energy sources becomes increasingly clear. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes that green energy—including solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, low-impact hydropower, and certain approved biomass sources—offers the most significant environmental benefits.

Diversifying our renewable energy portfolio is crucial in enhancing energy supply reliability, particularly in a world where extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent. A balanced mix of renewable energy alternatives not only reduces the risk of supply disruptions but also stimulates economic activities by opening up new, profitable opportunities. This diversified approach allows for an integrated management of the natural and climatic conditions influencing electricity production, considers the spatial and temporal distribution of energy demand, and aligns with the varying power consumption patterns of different consumer groups across regions.

Different Types of Renewable Energy

Solar Energy

Solar energy harnesses the power of the sun through photovoltaic cells or solar thermal systems. Photovoltaic cells convert sunlight directly into electricity, while solar thermal systems use sunlight to heat fluids that produce steam to drive turbines. Solar energy is abundant and can be harnessed in various regions globally.

Why is Solar PV Important?

Solar photovoltaics (PV) is a very modular technology that can be manufactured in large plants, which creates economies of scale, but can also be deployed in very small quantities at a time. This allows for a wide range of applications, from small residential rooftop systems up to utility-scale power generation installations.

What is the Role of Solar PV in Clean Energy Transitions?

Despite increases in investment costs due to rising commodity prices, utility-scale solar PV is the least costly option for new electricity generation in a significant majority of countries worldwide. Distributed solar PV, such as rooftop solar on buildings, is also set for faster growth because of higher retail electricity prices and growing policy support. In 2023, solar PV alone accounted for three-quarters of renewable capacity additions worldwide.

Wind Energy

Wind energy captures the kinetic energy of moving air using wind turbines. The wind turns the blades of the turbine, which spins a shaft connected to a generator, producing electricity. Wind energy is clean and sustainable, and modern wind farms can generate significant amounts of electricity.

Why is Wind Energy Important?

Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy technologies. It can be deployed onshore and offshore, allowing for flexible siting options. Wind farms provide substantial economic benefits to local communities through job creation and land lease payments.

What is the Role of Wind Energy in Clean Energy Transitions?

Wind energy plays a critical role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. It is one of the predominant sources of power generation in the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario. As technology advances, the efficiency and capacity of wind turbines continue to improve, making wind energy increasingly cost-competitive with traditional energy sources. In 2022, wind electricity generation increased by a record 265 TWh (up 14%), reaching more than 2,100 TWh. This was the second highest growth among all renewable power technologies, behind solar PV.

Hydropower

Hydropower, or hydroelectric power, uses the energy of flowing or falling water to generate electricity. Dams are often built on rivers to store water in reservoirs; when released, the water flows through turbines, generating electricity. Hydropower is one of the oldest and most widely used renewable energy sources.

Why is Hydropower Important?

Hydropower is a reliable and flexible source of electricity. It provides a stable power supply and can be quickly adjusted to meet peak demand. Hydropower plants also offer benefits such as flood control, irrigation, and water supply.

What is the Role of Hydropower in Clean Energy Transitions?

Hydropower contributes significantly to global renewable electricity generation. It supports grid stability and integration of other intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar. Small-scale hydropower projects are particularly valuable in remote areas without access to the grid. Hydroelectricity generation increased by almost 70 TWh (up close to 2%) in 2022, reaching 4,300 TWh. Hydropower remains the largest renewable source of electricity, generating more than all other renewable technologies combined.

Bioenergy

Bioenergy is derived from organic materials, such as plant and animal waste. Biomass can be burned directly for heat or converted into biofuels for transportation or biogas for electricity and heat. While bioenergy can reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions, it must be managed sustainably to avoid negative environmental impacts.

Why is Bioenergy Important?

Bioenergy provides a versatile and renewable source of energy. It helps in waste management and can be produced from various feedstocks, including C4 grasses, wood, energy crops, agricultural residues, forestry by-products, and organic waste from households and industries.

What is the Role of Bioenergy in Clean Energy Transitions?

Bioenergy supports energy diversification and security. Advanced biofuels can significantly reduce carbon emissions in the transport sector. Integrated biorefineries produce bio-based products and chemicals, contributing to the circular economy. Modern bioenergy is the largest source of renewable energy globally today, accounting for 55% of renewable energy and over 6% of global energy supply. The use of modern bioenergy has increased on average by about 3% per year between 2010 and 2022 and is on an upward trend.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy harnesses the heat from within the Earth. This heat can be used directly for heating buildings or generating electricity through geothermal power plants. Geothermal energy is reliable and can provide a continuous power supply, making it an essential part of the renewable energy mix.

Why is Geothermal Energy Important?

Geothermal energy offers a stable and reliable energy source with minimal environmental impact. It is not dependent on weather conditions, providing a constant energy supply. Geothermal systems can also be used for heating and cooling applications, enhancing energy efficiency.

What is the Role of Geothermal Energy in Clean Energy Transitions?

Geothermal energy contributes to the diversification of the energy mix. It supports baseload power generation, which is crucial for grid stability. Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) and direct-use applications are expanding the potential of geothermal energy in various regions.

Tidal Energy

Tidal energy captures the energy from the natural rise and fall of ocean tides. Tidal power plants use underwater turbines or other technologies to convert tidal movements into electricity. While tidal energy has great potential, it is still in the early stages of development compared to other renewable energy sources.

Why is Tidal Energy Important?

Tidal energy is predictable and reliable, with regular and consistent tidal cycles. It offers significant potential for coastal regions and islands, reducing dependence on imported fuels. Tidal energy projects can also have minimal visual impact compared to other renewable energy installations.

What is the Role of Tidal Energy in Clean Energy Transitions?

Tidal energy can contribute to a diversified and resilient energy system. Advances in technology and cost reductions are expected to enhance its commercial viability. Tidal energy can also support energy security and reduce carbon emissions in coastal areas.

Conclusion

Renewable energy is produced using natural resources that replenish themselves over time. These sources generate fewer greenhouse gases and contaminants compared to conventional fossil fuels. Renewable energy includes solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, biomass, and marine energy. Green energy, a subset of renewable energy, has the greatest environmental benefits, as it does not release harmful carbon emissions and reduces carbon footprints.

The transition to renewable energy is crucial for addressing climate change, reducing air pollution, and ensuring a sustainable energy future. As technological advancements continue and global cooperation increases, the potential for renewable energy to become the dominant energy source is within reach.

References

EPA.(n.d.). What Is Green Power? https://www.epa.gov/green-power-markets/what-green-power

IEA. (n.d.). Solar PV. https://www.iea.org/energy-system/renewables/solar-pv

IEA. (n.d.). Hidroelectricity. https://www.iea.org/energy-system/renewables/hydroelectricity

IEA. (n.d.). Wind. https://www.iea.org/energy-system/renewables/wind

IEA. (n.d.). Bioenergy.https://www.iea.org/energy-system/renewables/bioenergy

IRENA.(2021, March 16). Fast-track energy transitions to win the race to Zero. https://www.irena.org/news/pressreleases/2021/mar/fast-track-energy-transitions--to-win-the-race-to-zero

Mabekebeke, L. (2022, April 19). 13 million people die annually due to climate change.Metro News. https://www.maserumetro.com/news/

UnitedNations. (n.d.). Renewable energy – powering a safer future. https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/raising-ambition/renewable-energy

WorldHealth Organization. (n.d.). Billions of people still breathe unhealthy air:New who data. https://www.who.int/news/item/04-04-2022-billions-of-people-still-breathe-unhealthy-air-new-who-data