"Energy is vital for a good standard of living, and affordable sources of power that do not cause climate change or pollution are crucial. Renewable energy is recognized as providing the answer, with countries from around the world deciding at COP28 in 2023 to aim to triple the global renewable energy capacity by 2030, for the transition away from fossil fields to be on track for net-zero emissions by 2050.
This Very Short Introduction describes the main sources of renewable energy—solar PV, wind, hydropower, and biomass—their innovative technologies, and what each could deliver. It also discusses the relatively small contributions expected from tidal, wave, geothermal, and nuclear power, and from carbon capture and storage. Electrification of buildings, industry, and transport for net-zero will roughly triple the supply of electricity, and this can be met predominantly by solar PV and wind power.
The learning effect has resulted in a dramatic drop in the price of wind and solar PV power in the last decade, making them the cheapest generators of electricity in most parts of the world. The Very Short Introduction ends by discussing the actions needed that include strong consistent policies, financial initiatives to take advantage of the long-term benefits of renewables, and good community involvement."
"Energy is vital for a good standard of living, and much of the world's population does not have enough. Affordable and adequate sources of power that do not cause climate change or pollution are crucial; and renewables provide the answer. Wind and solar farms can now provide the cheapest electricity in many parts of the world. Moreover, they could provide all of the world's energy needs. But while market forces are fast helping the transition from fossil fuels to renewables, there are opposing pressures, such as the USA's proposed withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, and the vested interests in fossil fuels.
This Very Short Introduction describes the main renewable sources of energy—solar, wind, hydropower, and biomass—as well as the less well-developed ones—geothermal, tidal, and wave. Nick Jelley explains the challenges of integrating renewables into electricity grids, and the need for energy storage and for clean heat; and discusses the opportunities in developing countries for renewable energy to empower millions. He also considers international efforts and policies to support renewables and tackle climate change; and explains recent innovations in wind and solar energy production, battery storage, and in the emerging power-to-gas provision for clean heating."
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