Renewable Energy | Bài thảo luận tiếng anh thương mại

THUONGMAI UNIVERSITY
Faculty of Economic information systems and E-commerce
BUSINESS ENGLISH 1
TOPIC : RENEWABLE ENERGY Group: 4 Course: 251_ENTI3311_21
Course Lecture: Vũ Thị Thu Trang Members
Đào Thị Diệu Linh Đỗ Xuân Mai
Vũ Trịnh Mai Linh Lê Quang Minh
Hà Ngọc L y
Nguyễn Tuấn Minh Trần Khánh Ly 1 OUTLINE I. INTRODUCTION II. CONTENT 1. Key concepts
1.1 Definition of renewable energy
1.2 Differences between renewable and non-renewable energy sources
1.3 Economic principles related to energy (supply, demand, and externalities)
1.4 Importance of transitioning to renewable energy 2. Types of Renewable Energy 2.1 Solar energy 2.2 Wind energy 2.3 Hydropower
2.4 Biomass and Geothermal Energy a. Biomass energy
b. Geothermal energy 3. Costs and Benefits 3.1 Costs of Renewable Energy.
a. Cost Factors : Capital investment, Operation & Maintenance (O&M), Resource
availability, Policy & regulation
b. Comparison with Fossil Fuels : Price competitiveness, Fuel savings, External costs
c. Global Trends : Falling costs, Investment growth, Future outlook
3.2 Benefits of Renewable Energy a. Environmental Impact
b. Energy Independence and Security
c. Job Creation and Economic Growth 4. Challenges and Solutions 4.1 Key Challenges a. For Businesses:
- High upfront investment costs & limited access to financing
- Grid Congestion and Interconnection Delays 2
- Policy and Incentive Uncertainty b. For government
- Massive Grid Investment Needs
- Policy, Regulatory Uncertainty, and Institutional Barriers
- Public perception and resistance to change 4.2 Proposed Solutions a. For Businesses
- Investment in Research and Development (R&D)
- Public-Private Partnerships for Funding
- Adoption of Hybrid Energy Solutions b. For government
- Subsidies and Incentives for Renewable Energy
- Strengthening Policies and Carbon Pricing
- Developing Smart Grids and Energy Storage Solutions III. CONCLUSION 3 OUTLINE I. INTRODUCTION II. MAIN CONTENT 1.Key concepts
1.1 Definition of renewable energy – GAHCJ KEY WORDS
1.2 Differences between renewable and non-renewable energy sources – GẠCH Ý CHÍNH RA
1.3 Economic principles related to energy (supply, demand, and externalities) -
1.4 Importance of transitioning to renewable energy II. Types of Renewable Energy 2.1 Solar energy 2.2 Wind energy 2.3 Hydropower
2.4 Biomass and Geothermal Energy a. Biomass energy
b. Geothermal energy III. Costs and Benefits 3.1 Costs of Renewable Energy.
a. Cost Factors : Capital investment, Operation & Maintenance (O&M), Resource
availability, Policy & regulation
b. Comparison with Fossil Fuels : Price competitiveness, Fuel savings, External costs
c. Global Trends : Falling costs, Investment growth, Future outlook
3.2 Benefits of Renewable Energy a. Environmental Impact
b. Energy Independence and Security
c. Job Creation and Economic Growth IV Challenges and Solutions 4.1 Key Challenges a. For Businesses:
- High upfront investment costs & limited access to financing 4
- Grid Congestion and Interconnection Delays
- Policy and Incentive Uncertainty b. For government
- Massive Grid Investment Needs
- Policy, Regulatory Uncertainty, and Institutional Barriers
- Public perception and resistance to change 4.2 Proposed Solutions a. For Businesses
- Investment in Research and Development (R&D)
- Public-Private Partnerships for Funding
- Adoption of Hybrid Energy Solutions b. For government
- Subsidies and Incentives for Renewable Energy
- Strengthening Policies and Carbon Pricing
- Developing Smart Grids and Energy Storage Solutions CONCLUSION i.intro
ii. main content 1. CONCEPT
2. CLASSIFICATION
3. Differences between renewable and non-renewable energy sources
Gạch ý chính – kẻ bảng để thấy sự khác biệt
4. Costs and Benefits of renewable energy
5. IV Challenges and Solutions iii. conclusion 5
MEETING MINUTES (1) - GROUP: 4
Time: From 21:30 to 22:30 on 08/09/2025
Place: Google Meet (Online Meeting) Participants: Đào Thị Diệu Linh Vũ Trịnh Mai Linh Hà Ngọc Ly Trần Khánh Ly Đỗ Xuân Mai Lê Quang Minh Nguyễn Tuấn Minh
Contents for discussing:
- Discuss the main topic of the group discussion: Renewable Energy.
- Share and exchange initial ideas regarding the scope, objectives, and approach of the discussion.
- Propose potential key contents: definition and characteristics of renewable energy,
common types of renewable sources, advantages, limitations, and solutions
- Tentatively assign sections to members for further research and preparation for the next meeting. Leader (Signature and name)
Minute-Taker (Signature and name) Mai Ly Đỗ Xuân Mai Trần Khánh Ly 6
MEETING MINUTES (2) - GROUP: 4
Time: From 21:30 to 22:30 on 17/09/2025
Place: Google Meet (Online Meeting) Participants: Đào Thị Diệu Linh Vũ Trịnh Mai Linh Hà Ngọc Ly Trần Khánh Ly Đỗ Xuân Mai Lê Quang Minh Nguyễn Tuấn Minh
Contents for discussing:
- Review the previously submitted outline according to the comments and feedback from the teacher.
- Revise the structure: add, remove, or rearrange sections to ensure logical flow, clarity, and completeness.
- Finalize the revised outline and confirm task allocation for each member based on the updated structure. Leader (Signature and name)
Minute-Taker (Signature and name) Mai Ly Đỗ Xuân Mai Trần Khánh Ly 7
I. INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................
II. CONTENT................................................................................................................. 10
1. Concepts........................................................................................................................................10
1.1. Definition of Renewable Energy............................................................................................10
1.2. Origin and Sources.................................................................................................................10
1.3. Core Characteristics................................................................................................................10
1.4. Global Significance................................................................................................................11
2. Classification of Renewable Energy..............................................................................................11
2.1 Solar energy.............................................................................................................................11
2.2. Wind energy...........................................................................................................................12
2.3. Hydropower............................................................................................................................13
2.4. Biomass and Geothermal Energy...........................................................................................13
a. Biomass Energy............................................................................................13
b. Geothermal energy:.......................................................................................14
3. Differences between Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy Sources.........................................15
3.1. Definition and Availability.....................................................................................................15
3.2. Environmental Impact............................................................................................................16
3.3 Reliability and Accessibility....................................................................................................16
3.4. Long-term Sustainability........................................................................................................17
4. Costs and Benefits of renewable energy........................................................................................17
4.1 Costs of Renewable Energy.....................................................................................................17
4.2 Benefits of renewable energy..................................................................................................19
5. Challenges and Solutions..............................................................................................................21
5.1 Key challenges........................................................................................................................21
5.2 Proposed Solutions..................................................................................................................22
III. CONCLUSION........................................................................................................ 26
IV. REFERENCES........................................................................................................27
V. TASK ASSIGNMENT TABLE................................................................................28 8 I. INTRODUCTION
In the face of escalating environmental concerns and growing energy demands,
renewable energy has become a cornerstone in the pursuit of sustainable development.
By harnessing natural resources such as sunlight, wind, and water, renewable energy
provides cleaner and more reliable alternatives to fossil fuels, offering pathways to
mitigate climate change and secure long-term energy stability. Its importance is not
only technological but also economic and social, as it directly contributes to shaping a
greener and more resilient future.
In this group discussion, we will explore renewable energy through five
interconnected dimensions. First, we will clarify the fundamental concepts to establish
a clear understanding of the topic. Second, we will classify the major types of
renewable energy, examining their distinctive features. Third, we will highlight the
differences between renewable and non-renewable sources, emphasizing their impacts on sustainability . Fourth, we will analyze the costs and benefits associated with
renewable energy adoption. Finally, we will address the challenges that hinder its
development and propose viable solutions for the future. By following this outline, our
discussion aims to provide a comprehensive and insightful perspective on renewable
energy and its role in shaping the future of global energy systems. 9 II. CONTENT 1. Concepts
1.1. Definition of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy refers to ener
gy derived from natural processes that are continuously replenished
on a human timescale. Unlike fossil fuels, which take
millions of years to form, renewable sources are available in cycles that ensure their
ongoing availability. In academic and policy contexts, renewable energy is defined as
energy generated from resources such as sunlight, wind, water flows, and biological
matter. This definition emphasizes sustainability, accessibility, and the ability to meet
human needs without exhausting the planet’s finite reserves.
1.2. Origin and Sources
The origins of renewable energy are rooted in the Earth's natural systems, primarily
driven by solar radiation, the planet's internal heat, and gravitational forces. These
fundamental forces power all renewable sources.
- Solar Radiation: The sun is the ultimate source for most renewable energy forms. It
directly provides solar energy and indirectly drives the weather patterns that create
wind energy, as well as the water cycle for hydropower and biomass growth.
- Geothermal Heat: This energy comes from the Earth's molten core, a constant source of heat that can be harnessed.
- Gravitational Forces: The gravitational pull of the moon and sun creates tides, which
are used to generate tidal energy.
These origins are the foundation for the diverse range of renewable sources we use
today, including solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass.
1.3. Core Characteristics
Renewable energy is defined by several essential characteristics that set it apart
from conventional energy sources. First, it is replenishable, as natural processes such as
sunlight, wind, and hydrological cycles restore these resources continuously on a
human timescale. Second, it is widely available, though its intensity and accessibility 10
vary across regions depending on geography and climate. Third, renewable energy is
generally environmentally benign, producing minimal greenhouse gas emissions during
use and contributing less to air and water pollution compared to fossil fuels. Finally,
renewable systems often support decentralized generation, allowing households,
communities, and local enterprises to participate directly in energy production. These
defining features explain why renewable energy is central to modern energy transitions
and global sustainability strategies.
1.4. Global Significance Renewable ener
gy holds profound global significance as a cornerstone for
addressing pressing planetary challenges, including climate change mitigation and
energy security. It plays a pivotal role in reducing carbon dioxide emissions, aligning
with international agreements like the
Paris Accord to limit global warming.
Economically, it drives innovation, job creation, and investment, with projections
indicating it could supply the majority of the world's electricity by mid-century,
bolstering sustainable growth in both developed and developing nations. On a societal
level, renewables enhance access to affordable energy in remote areas, promoting
equity and poverty alleviation while safeguarding biodiversity and public health.
Ultimately, its widespread adoption represents a transformative pathway toward a
resilient, low-carbon future, underscoring humanity's commitment to harmonious
coexistence with the environment.
2. Classification of Renewable Energy
2.1 Solar energy
Solar energy is the power derived from sunlight, captured through solar panels and
technologies to produce electricity, heat, or fuel. It is one of the most abundant and
accessible renewable energy sources, available in nearly every region of the world.
Solar energy can be harnessed in two main ways. Photovoltaic (PV) systems directly
convert sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials, most commonly
silicon. Solar thermal systems, on the other hand, use mirrors or lenses to concentrate 11
sunlight and generate heat, which can then be used for industrial processes, heating, or
electricity production through steam turbines.
Solar energy is clean, inexhaustible, and scalable—from rooftop systems on
households to utility-scale solar farms. Technological advancements and falling panel
costs have made it one of the fastest-growing energy sources. However, its
intermittency (dependence on sunlight) requires storage systems such as batteries or
integration with other energy sources to ensure stable supply.
China leads the world in installed solar capacity, followed by countries like the
United States, India, and Germany. Europe has long been a pioneer in solar adoption,
particularly Germany and Spain. In Southeast Asia, Vietnam has emerged as a leader,
especially in Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan provinces, where large-scale solar farms take
advantage of favorable sunlight conditions.
2.2. Wind energy
Wind energy is generated by converting the kinetic energy of moving air into
mechanical and then electrical power using wind turbines. It is one of the oldest forms
of renewable energy, historically used for sailing and milling, but today applied at
industrial scale for electricity production.
Wind energy is produced through the following process: modern wind turbines
consist of large blades mounted on tall towers. When wind moves across the blades, it
creates lift and causes them to rotate. This mechanical motion drives a generator inside
the nacelle, converting the kinetic energy of the wind into electricity. Wind energy is
deployed both onshore (land-based) and offshore (sea-based), with offshore turbines
benefiting from stronger and more consistent winds.
Wind power is clean, cost-effective, and increasingly competitive with fossil fuels.
Offshore wind farms provide high energy yields, while onshore wind remains more
widespread due to lower installation costs. Challenges include variability of wind
resources, land use concerns, and impacts on local ecosystems, though modern designs
continue to mitigate these issues. 12
China and the United States are the largest producers of wind energy , with
Germany, Denmark, and the UK playing key roles in offshore development. Denmark
is often cited as a pioneer in offshore wind technology. Vietnam has significant wind
energy potential, particularly in coastal provinces like Binh Thuan and Soc Trang,
where both onshore and offshore projects are being actively developed. 2.3. Hydropower
Hydropower, or hydroelectric power, is a renewable source of energy that generates
power by using a dam or diversion structure to alter the natural flow of a river or other
body of water. Hydropower relies on the endless, constantly recharging system of the
water cycle to produce electricity
, using a fuel—water—that is not reduced or eliminated in the process.
Because hydropower uses water to generate electricity, plants are usually located on
or near a water source. The energy available from the moving water depends on both
the volume of the water flow and the change in elevation—also known as the head—
from one point to another. The greater the flow and the higher the head, the more the
electricity that can be generated. Water flows through a pipe—also known as a
penstock—and then spins the blades in a turbine, which, in turn, spins a generator that
ultimately produces electricity. Most conventional hydroelectric facilities operate this
way, including run-of-the-river systems and pumped storage systems.
Hydropower is highly developed in countries with abundant water resources. China
leads the world with over 390 GW of installed capacity, followed by Brazil, the United
States, Canada, and India. In Norway, hydropower generates about 90% of the
country’s electricity, while in Brazil it accounts for more than 55%. Many African and
Asian countries, such as Ethiopia and Laos, are expanding large-scale projects to meet rising electricity demand.
2.4. Biomass and Geothermal Energy
a. Biomass Energy
Biomass is a versatile renewable energy source. It can be converted into liquid
transportation fuels that are equivalent to fossil-based fuels, such as gasoline, jet, and 13
diesel fuel. Bioenergy technologies enable the reuse of carbon from biomass and waste
streams into reduced-emissions fuels for cars, trucks, jets and ships; bioproducts; and renewable power.
The chemical energy stored in biomass is converted into usable energy through
processes like combustion (burning to produce heat or electricity), anaerobic digestion
(producing biogas), or conversion into biofuels (e.g., ethanol, biodiesel).
Biomass energy is widely used in both developed and developing countries. In
the European Union, it accounts for nearly 60% of renewable energy consumption,
with countries like Sweden, Finland, and Germany leading in modern bioenergy use.
Brazil is a global leader in biofuels, producing ethanol from sugarcane to power
vehicles, while the United States relies heavily on corn-based bioethanol. In Asia,
countries such as China and India are promoting biomass for electricity and rural heating.
b. Geothermal energy:
Geothermal energy refers to the natural thermal energy in the Earth’s interior
that is brought to the surface by technological methods and utilized in different fields.
Deep in the Earth’s interior, magma-heated water and vapor sources form geothermal
energy under high temperature and pressure; this energy is utilized in many sectors
from electricity generation to heating systems with the help of special equipment and techniques.
Geothermal energy generates energy using the heat of hot rocks, magma or hot
water layers beneath the earth’s crust. These heat sources have a constant temperature
profile, providing reliable energy infrastructure all year round. These systems are based
on bringing high-temperature steam to the surface and using it for energy conversion processes.
Deep wells are drilled to reach these hot springs underground and these wells are
equipped with high temperature resistant pipe systems. After the hot water or steam is
brought to the surface, turbines and generators are activated, which convert the energy
of the steam into mechanical movement, and then into electrical energy. After the 14
cooling process, water that has turned into a liquid state is injected underground again,
creating a sustainable cycle. The design and operation stages of these systems are of
critical importance for stable and efficient energy production
Geothermal power is concentrated in geologically active regions. The United States
is the global leader with nearly 4 GW of installed capacity, followed by Indonesia, the
Philippines, Turkey, and New Zealand. Iceland is a standout case where geothermal
provides about 25% of electricity and nearly 90% of heating needs. Kenya has also
emerged as Africa’s top geothermal producer, with projects in the Rift Valley supplying
a large share of national power. While high upfront costs limit expansion in some areas,
countries with active tectonic zones continue to invest heavily.
3. Differences between Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy Sources
3.1. Definition and Availability a. Definition
Renewable energy comes from natural sources that continuously replenish
themselves. Unlike finite fossil fuels, these energy sources won't run out. The primary
types include solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass.
Non-renewable energy comes from sources that cannot be replenished within a
human lifetime. These include fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) and nuclear energy
(though sometimes categorized separately). These resources formed over millions of
years and once used, cannot be quickly replaced. b. Availability
Renewable energy is inherently reliant on seasonal and climate variation. If there is
no wind blowing, there is no wind energy to capture, and if there is no sun shining,
there is no solar energy to capture. This unpredictability is one of the major concerns regarding renewable energy
. Yet, energy storage systems and options like green
hydrogen can play a role in reducing this issue
Non-renewable resources are not reliant
on short-term conditions and remain
accessible regardless of weather and climate patterns. This makes them desirable for 15
many industries that require continual on-demand energy , like steel and cement production.
3.2. Environmental Impact
Renewable energy sources have minimal environmental impact. Their primary
impacts are related to infrastructure production, transportation and installation. After
installation, they produce little-to-no greenhouse gas emissions. This is one of the main
reasons they will play an essential role in the world’s future energy mix.
In contrast, non-renewable energy produces large quantities of greenhouse gases and
pollution throughout its life cycle. Fossil fuels are the leading cause of climate change
and have led to the highest rate of atmospheric carbon dioxide in the last 5 million years.
Solar and wind power, for example, provide electricity without releasing any toxins or
emissions, in contrast to fossil fuels. Without contributing to global warming or other
harmful atmospheric pollutants, solar panels and wind turbines respectively collect
energy from the sun’s rays and the wind. So, throughout their useful lives, renewable
energy systems leave much less of an ecological impact than conventional power plants.
3.3 Reliability and Accessibility
Reliability and accessibility determine how dependable energy is for daily life and
industrial use. Renewable energy often depends on natural conditions such as sunlight,
wind, or rainfall, which makes it vulnerable to interruptions. For example, solar power
only functions during the day, and
wind power varies with weather patterns.
Geographical limitations are also evident, since hydropower requires suitable river
systems and geothermal energy depends
on volcanic areas. Nevertheless, recent
advancements in energy storage and smart grids have improved the reliability of
renewables. In terms of accessibility, the high initial investment can be a barrier, yet
once installed, renewable systems provide decentralized power that benefits rural and remote regions. 16
Non-renewable energy sources present a different picture. They provide a consistent
and predictable supply, largely unaffected by weather conditions. Their reliability is
reinforced by a long-established global infrastructure that ensures extraction,
transportation, and distribution. However, accessibility is not without problems, as
countries without domestic reserves must rely on imports, leaving them vulnerable to
market fluctuations and geopolitical instability.
At present, non-renewable sources have the upper hand due to their stable supply
and strong infrastructure. Still, renewable energy is catching up quickly , offering
flexible solutions supported by new technology and localized access.
3.4. Long-term Sustainability
When it comes to sustainability, renewable energy has clear advantages. It produces
very low greenhouse gas emissions, protecting the environment from climate impacts.
More importantly, it is based on inexhaustible resources such as sunlight, wind, and
water, which ensures long-term availability. The falling cost of production and the
creation of green jobs also make renewables increasingly attractive. Yet challenges
remain, particularly in the resource-intensive production of solar panels and wind
turbines, as well as land-use conflicts for large-scale projects.
Non-renewable energy sources, by contrast, are finite and will eventually run out.
Their use has been linked to serious environmental problems, including air pollution,
water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions. Economically, they are unstable
due to price volatility and limited reserves. Nuclear energy avoids carbon emissions but
poses other difficulties, such as radioactive waste and the risk of accidents.
Renewable energy is the only truly sustainable solution, since it relies on unlimited natural resources a nd causes
less damage to the environment. Non-renewables,
although useful for present needs, cannot provide a secure or clean future because of depletion and pollution.
4. Costs and Benefits of renewable energy
4.1 Costs of Renewable Energy.
- Capital Investment and Infrastructure: 17
One of the major challenges of renewable energy lies in its high upfront capital
requirements. The installation of solar panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric dams, and
transmission lines demands significant financial resources. However , once these
systems are in place, operation and maintenance costs are generally lower than those of
fossil fuel plants—solar and wind energy in particular have minimal running expenses
since they do not rely on continuous fuel supplies. Cost efficiency also depends heavily
on geographical and climatic conditions—solar energy is more affordable in sunny
regions, while wind power is most effective in areas with consistent wind patterns. In
addition, government policies such as subsidies, tax credits, and financial incentives
play a decisive role in reducing the effective cost of renewable deployment.
- Price Competitiveness Compared to Fossil Fuels:
Renewable energy has become increasingly competitive with traditional fossil
fuels. According to a 2025 IRENA report, 91% of newly commissioned utility-scale
renewable projects globally in 2024 generated electricity at a lower cost than the
cheapest fossil fuel alternative. (Energy Tracker Asia) Solar photovoltaics (PV)
averaged $0.043/kWh, about 41% cheaper than fossil fuel options, while onshore wind
was even cheaper, at around $0.034/kWh, about 53% cheaper, per the same report.
(TaiyangNews - All About Solar Power)
Another major advantage is the absence of ongoing fuel purchases, which
reduces long-term costs. Fossil fuels carry hidden external costs such as air pollution,
greenhouse gas emissions, and public health expenditures. Renewables avoid most of
these, which improves their economic and environmental sustainability. Moreover, in
2024, renewables helped avoid an estimated USD 467 billion in fossil fuel costs
globally. (Energy Tracker Asia)
- Global Trends and Future Outlook:
Global trends show a rapid decline in renewable energy costs over the past
decade. For example, between 2010 and 2024, the total installed cost (TIC) for solar
PV dropped to about USD 691/kW, and for onshore wind to about USD 1,041/kW,
reflecting large reductions in module cost, system components, and installation “soft
costs”. (TaiyangNews - All About Solar Power) Battery storage costs have also 18
plummeted—around 93% decline since
2010, dropping to approximately USD
192/kWh in 2024. (Renewable Market Watch)
Projections suggest that renewables will increasingly dominate global electricity supply
in the next decade or two, as technology continues to improve and policy support remains
strong. Although challenges such as energy storage limitations, grid
infrastructure, and financing in developing regions still remain, these cost trends make
the case strong that renewables are becoming the most cost-effective and sustainable energy option for the future.
4.2 Benefits of renewable energy - Environmental Impact:
One of the most compelling reasons to transition to renewable energy is its
positive effect on the environment. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, renewable sources
such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass emit little to no carbon dioxide (CO ), ₂ which is
the primary greenhouse gas responsible for global warming. This reduction in
greenhouse gas emissions plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change and its
associated impacts, such as extreme weather events. According to the International
Energy Agency (IEA), renewable energy helped avoid around 550 million tons of CO₂
emissions in 2022—equivalent to the entire annual emissions of the European Union’s
transportation sector. By relying on renewables, we can curb global warming and
reduce the adverse effects of air pollution.
Moreover, renewable energy improves air and water quality. The burning of coal
and oil not only releases harmful emissions but also contributes to smog, acid rain, and
water contamination. In contrast, solar and wind energy production does not generate
harmful pollutants, leading to cleaner air and water. This, in turn, has direct health
benefits for the population. For instance, in the United States, the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that improvements in air quality from clean energy
sources could save $30–100 billion annually in healthcare costs. Additionally, large-
scale investments in solar and wind energy in China have already led to noticeable
reductions in air pollution levels, particularly in cities like Beijing. 19
Renewable energy also helps conserve natural resources. Unlike fossil fuels,
which are finite and require destructive mining and drilling, renewable sources are
sustainable and replenishable. The Kamuthi Solar Power Project in India, one of the
world’s largest solar parks, is an excellent example of how renewable energy can
reduce reliance on coal mining, thereby preserving ecosystems and natural resources.
- Energy Independence and Security:
Another significant advantage of renewable energy is the potential for energy
independence and improved security. Many countries currently rely on imported fossil
fuels, making them vulnerable to price fluctuations, supply disruptions, and
geopolitical conflicts. By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, nations can
reduce their dependence on imported oil and gas, thus enhancing their energy security. For example, after the
2022 Russia–Ukraine crisis, Germany accelerated its
investments in wind and solar energy to lessen its reliance on Russian natural gas. This
shift has helped Germany stabilize its energy supply and protect itself from external
shocks. Furthermore, renewable energy sources tend to have low operating costs once
the infrastructure is in place, offering long-term price stability. In the United States, the
cost of wind power has dropped by over 70%, while solar energy costs have decreased
by more than 90% in the past decade. As a result, countries that adopt renewable
energy can shield themselves from the volatility of global fossil fuel markets.
Energy independence also contributes to national security by reducing a
country's exposure to geopolitical conflicts over energy resources. Denmark, which
generates around 50% of its electricity from wind, has become less vulnerable to
external fossil fuel supply shocks. In addition, distributed renewable energy systems,
such as solar panels and wind farms, decentralize energy production and enhance
resilience, particularly in rural or remote areas.
- Job Creation and Economic Growth:
The renewable energy sector is a major driver of job creation and economic
growth. As countries around the world invest in renewable infrastructure, they create a
wide range of employment opportunities in areas such as manufacturing, construction,
installation, and maintenance. The renewable energy industry also promotes research 20