What is good about renewable energy?

Renewable energy has been a hot topic in recent years, and the UK has been at the forefront of the movement. There are many benefits to using renewable energy, including reducing carbon emissions, creating jobs, and improving energy security. In this article, we will explore what is good about renewable energy in the United Kingdom.

Reducing Carbon Emissions

One of the most significant benefits of renewable energy is its ability to reduce carbon emissions. The UK has set ambitious targets to reduce its carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050, and renewable energy will play a crucial role in achieving this goal. Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power produce zero carbon emissions, unlike traditional fossil fuels such as coal and oil, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

In 2019, renewable energy sources provided a record 37.1% of the UK’s electricity generation, up from 33.1% in 2018. This increase has helped to reduce the country’s carbon footprint significantly. According to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, the UK’s carbon emissions fell by 3% in 2019, the largest reduction in any advanced economy.

Creating Jobs

Another benefit of renewable energy is the job opportunities it creates. The UK’s renewable energy sector has grown significantly in recent years, with over 125,000 people employed in the industry. This number is expected to increase as the country continues to invest in renewable energy sources.

According to a report by the Renewable Energy Association, the UK’s renewable energy sector could create an additional 120,000 jobs by 2030. These jobs would be in a range of areas, including manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of renewable energy infrastructure. The growth of the renewable energy industry would also create jobs in related sectors such as engineering and construction.

Improving Energy Security

Renewable energy sources can also improve energy security by reducing the country’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. The UK is currently heavily dependent on imported gas and oil, which can be subject to price fluctuations and supply disruptions. By investing in renewable energy sources, the country can reduce its reliance on these imported fuels, improving energy security and reducing the risk of supply disruptions.

Renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power are also domestically sourced, reducing the UK’s dependence on foreign energy sources. This increased energy security can help to stabilise energy prices and reduce the country’s exposure to geopolitical risks associated with fossil fuel imports.

Conclusion

Renewable energy has many benefits for the United Kingdom, including reducing carbon emissions, creating jobs, and improving energy security. The UK has made significant progress in developing renewable energy sources in recent years, with wind power, in particular, becoming a major contributor to the country’s electricity generation.

However, there is still work to be done, and the UK must continue to invest in renewable energy sources to reach its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. By doing so, the UK can continue to reap the benefits of renewable energy and lead the way in the transition to a low-carbon economy.