The benefits of renewable energy are numerous. It reduces emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that contribute to climate change, it offers a way to mitigate air pollution, and it provides affordable electricity. It can also help countries build their capacity to meet energy demand by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, as well as improve resilience and security by diversifying energy sources and increasing the proportion of local production.
It also creates jobs. In the US, the renewables industry employs three times as many people as fossil fuels do. In addition, these jobs are higher-paying, providing a great opportunity to make a good life for workers and their families.
Renewable energy sources are abundant, geographically widespread, and often available 24/7. They include sunlight that shines on solar panels (which can now be found on the roofs of homes and businesses), wind from turbines, tidal power from ocean waves, biomass from plant material like forests, and geothermal energy from lava flows or hot springs. Renewables can also be combined to create hybrid or “renewable plus” power systems, leveraging the advantages of each type of resource.
Unlike fossil fuels, these resources are replenished naturally, so they can be tapped again and again to produce energy without any environmental or health impacts. This makes them a safe and sustainable option for our future energy needs. However, it is important to note that renewable energy technologies aren’t foolproof. Renewables can be intermittent – for instance, the sun doesn’t shine at night or there are droughts – and their growth will require continued investment to ensure their long-term viability.