The Development of Renewable Energy Around the World
In the last few decades, many countries have begun to make an effort to be more eco-friendly. One of the major issues is that of energy sources, since the natural resources we use can only last so long. There has been much work to use more renewable energy sources, from solar power to wind. Some governments encourage individuals and businesses to make use of green energy with incentives or grants in order to use renewable energy methods on their homes. Companies are also investing more into methods like solar energy on a large scale to provide electricity to large groups of houses at reduced costs, this is made possible by economies of scale and the government grants provided, as well as through regular Solar Farm Maintenance to ensure that the panels are running efficiently to reduce waste and remain a green option. It's not just the most developed countries that are promoting and investing in renewable energy either. Its use has increased across the globe, from China to the USA. In fact, emerging economies are placing a focus on renewables thanks to their lower costs.
Green Energy in the EU
Countries with larger economies have been notable in promoting renewable energy in recent years. In the EU, investment in green energy has unfortunately dropped by a significant amount. However, despite this, it is still the primary source of energy among the member states. Renewables provide 44% of the EU's electricity, according to figures from 2015. 2016 has seen continued efforts to invest in renewable energy. The UK is fourth in the countries that invest most in renewable energies and fuel. Ahead of them are China, the US, and Japan.
Asian Investment in Renewable Energy
When it comes to renewable energy in Asia, many people might be surprised by the efforts being made. Various countries are investing in different forms of renewable energy. They include hydropower and wind power. China, of course, is leading the charge. They make the highest investment in hydropower, solar PV capacity, wind power, and solar water heating. However, other Asian nations are following behind. Japan invests a lot in renewable energy and is just behind China in solar PV capacity investment. India is focusing on hydropower and solar water heating. Some slightly more surprising countries, such as Vietnam and Thailand, are also pushing renewables.
Improvements in the Middle East and North Africa
As a region known for its supply of oil and natural gas, it's not surprising that the MENA region isn't at the forefront of renewable energy. However, the energy demand in the area is high. Experts argue that renewables can play a significant part in providing for the region. Although there is still a long way to go, there is interest in renewable energies. For example, Iran's Renewable Energy Conference shows that it is being promoted. In fact, it is one of the factors helping to further economic growth in the Middle East.
Investment from Small Countries
Some smaller countries are dedicating significant units of their GDP to renewable energy. A Renewables Global Status Report put Mauritania, Honduras, Uruguay and Jamaica at the top. This indicates that the lower cost of renewable energies has allowed for growing economies to invest in renewable energy. This is good news, as these countries have a growing demand for energy.
Countries around the world are investing in renewable energy. However, some are doing better than others. With the right moves, those who are behind could be encouraged to catch up.