Sources Of Energy - Robert Jamerson Rasmussen College

Sources Of Energyrobert Jamersonrasmussen Collegesources Of Energynati

Sources of energy are crucial for economic development, job creation, reliable electric grids, reducing oil imports, air pollution, and lowering energy costs. A centralized national energy policy can help coordinate efforts to promote energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable sources, setting specific goals like achieving at least 80% electricity access nationwide. Given the finite nature of non-renewable resources such as coal, natural gas, and oil, and the replenishable nature of renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal energy, emphasis should be placed on expanding renewable energy use. Renewable energy is sustainable, environmentally friendly, and increasingly cost-effective as technological advancements drive down prices. Currently, renewable sources account for less than 2% of total energy, but their potential for growth is vast, especially for developing nations like Malawi, which face energy shortages. Diverse renewable technologies—solar, wind, geothermal—offer abundant, clean energy that does not emit greenhouse gases or pollution, aiding in combating climate change. The future of global energy hinges on a transition towards these sustainable sources.

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The global energy landscape is undergoing a transformation driven by the necessity to address environmental concerns, resource depletion, and economic stability. Establishing a cohesive national energy policy is imperative for guiding this transition toward sustainable energy sources. Such policy would ideally encompass strategic goals like energy conservation, efficiency, and a significant escalation in the use of renewable energies. This approach not only ensures energy security but also helps mitigate environmental impacts associated with fossil fuels.

A comprehensive energy policy should prioritize the expansion of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, and hydropower. These resources are naturally replenishable and generate energy without emitting greenhouse gases (Shafiei & Salim, 2014). The environmental benefits include reducing air pollution, decreasing carbon emissions, and conserving finite non-renewable resources. Furthermore, renewable energy sources are diverse and available globally, which offers opportunities for energy independence for many nations.

Technological advancements have notably decreased the cost of renewable energy technologies, making them more economically competitive with traditional fossil fuels. As Dogan & Seker (2016) noted, the costs associated with renewable energy have historically followed a downward trend, unlike fossil fuels which tend to experience volatility and rising prices. Consequently, renewable energy can provide sustainable, affordable, and reliable power, especially in remote and underdeveloped regions, such as Malawi, where energy access remains limited.

The importance of transitioning to renewable sources is further reinforced by environmental considerations. The extraction and utilization of coal, oil, and natural gas release pollutants and greenhouse gases that accelerate climate change (Hannon et al., 2015). Renewable energy technologies, however, produce minimal emissions, supporting global efforts to meet climate change targets outlined in international accords like the Paris Agreement. The potential for renewable energy to provide a stable energy supply aligns with sustainable development goals, ensuring future generations inherit a healthier planet.

Additionally, renewable energy fosters economic growth by creating new industries and employment opportunities. The renewable sector offers job prospects in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research. Developing countries can leverage renewable resources to improve energy access and boost local economies, alleviating poverty and enhancing overall quality of life (Shafiei & Salim, 2014). Investment in renewable infrastructure also reduces dependency on imported fuels, improving national energy security.

Despite the promising prospects, challenges remain in integrating renewable energy into existing grids, requiring investments in storage solutions, grid modernization, and policy incentives. Governments must play a pivotal role by establishing consistent regulatory frameworks, offering fiscal incentives, and facilitating private sector participation. Institutional reforms and public awareness campaigns are also critical in catalyzing the transition.

In conclusion, shifting towards renewable energy is essential to create a sustainable, resilient, and environmentally-friendly energy system. The adoption of a centralized, well-defined national energy policy emphasizing renewable resources will ensure energy security, environmental protection, and economic prosperity for future generations. It is crucial for policymakers worldwide to recognize the urgency of this transition and to implement strategies that accelerate the deployment of renewable energy technologies.

References

• Dogan, E., & Seker, F. (2016). The influence of real output, renewable and non-renewable energy, trade and financial development on carbon emissions in the top renewable energy countries. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 60, 156–164.
• Hannon, M. J., Foxon, T. J., & Gale, W. F. (2015). ‘Demand pull’ government policies to support Product-Service System activity: the case of Energy Service Companies (ESCos) in the UK. Journal of Cleaner Production, 108, 523–534.
• Shafiei, S., & Salim, R. A. (2014). Non-renewable and renewable energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in OECD countries: A comparative analysis. Energy Policy, 66, 276–287.
• International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). (2019). Global renewable energy prospects. IRENA Reports.
• United Nations. (2015). Sustainable Development Goals: Goal 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy. UN Publications.
• World Bank. (2020). Energy Access and the Path to Universal Energy Access. World Bank Reports.
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• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). (2021). Renewable Energy Cost Analysis: Utility-Scale Solar, Wind, and Geothermal. NREL Technical Reports.
• McKinsey & Company. (2018). The Case for Investing in Renewable Energy: Economic and Environmental Benefits. McKinsey Insights.
• International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2021). Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. IPCC Report.