What are the Top Renewable Energy Sources?
Renewable energy is reshaping how the world powers itself.
The United Nations defines it as “energy derived from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed.”
With climate goals taking centre stage, renewable energy has become central to corporate and governmental strategies for a sustainable future.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts record growth in renewables with more renewable energy capacity added globally in the next five years than since the first commercial renewable energy power plant was built more than 100 years ago.
In 2024, wind and solar are projected to surpass hydropower in electricity generation.
By 2025, renewables will overtake coal as the dominant electricity source. Wind and solar are set to individually outpace nuclear by 2025 and 2026, with their combined share doubling to 25% by 2028.
The IEA says: “The electricity sector remains the brightest spot for renewables with the strong growth of solar photovoltaics and wind... finding a greater role for renewable energy in transportation and heating remains critical to the energy transition.”
But what key renewable energy sources will define this transition?
Hydrogen fuel cells
Hydrogen fuel cells create electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water as a by-product.
Toyota has pioneered this technology, with its Mirai fuel cell vehicle offering a range of 650km and a refuelling time of under five minutes.
Beyond cars, Toyota applies its fuel cell systems to trucks, buses and power generators, while supporting hydrogen infrastructure development globally.
Green hydrogen
Produced via renewable-powered electrolysis, green hydrogen offers a zero-emission alternative.
Nel ASA is a leader in this space, producing advanced electrolysers for large-scale hydrogen production.
Its technology prioritises energy efficiency and durability, laying the groundwork for a hydrogen-fuelled future.
Tidal energy
Harnessing ocean tides for power, tidal energy offers a predictable renewable source.
The UK ranks among global leaders in this field, with companies like Atlantis Resources pushing advancements.
Complementing tidal efforts, technologies such as Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) utilise temperature differences in ocean layers to generate electricity, representing a promising area for tropical regions.
Biomass
Biomass relies on burning organic materials to generate power, offering a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels.
UK-based Drax Group has transitioned from coal to biomass, achieving a 99% reduction in carbon emissions since 2012.
Despite its benefits, biomass faces scrutiny over its environmental impact, sparking ongoing debates about its role in the renewable mix.
Geothermal energy
Geothermal energy taps into heat beneath the Earth's surface, providing consistent energy with minimal emissions.
Ormat Technologies has pioneered this field, designing and operating geothermal plants worldwide.
With more than 3,200MW of capacity installed, Ormat is advancing this reliable renewable source on a global scale.
Hydropower
One of the most established renewables, hydropower generates electricity through flowing water.
Brookfield Renewable Partners leads investment in hydroelectric assets, with hydropower contributing 54% of its revenue.
The company's century-long experience underscores the reliability and longevity of hydropower as a cornerstone of clean energy.
Wind power
Wind energy converts kinetic energy from wind into electricity and accounts for nearly 30% of the UK’s power supply.
Siemens Gamesa drives innovation in turbine technology, reducing costs by 70% since 2009.
Former CEO Jochen Eickholt highlights its growing importance, stating: “Wind energy is a major factor across societies: not only in the fight against climate change but also in economic and employment growth.”
Solar power
Solar energy captures sunlight through photovoltaic cells to produce electricity, offering vast potential as one of the most abundant energy sources.
Tesla’s Solar Roof integrates power generation into building materials, combining sustainability with functionality.
In the UK, solar installations can save households up to £525 annually on energy bills.
Renewable energy is more than a response to climate change; it’s a path to a sustainable future.
As the IEA explains: “Renewables... are at the centre of the transition to less carbon-intensive and more sustainable energy systems.”
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