The global energy transition is well underway. The days of relying on fossil fuels—coal, oil, and gas—are drawing to a close. These energy sources are not only finite and increasingly expensive to extract but also responsible for some of the most damaging consequences of climate change, from rising sea levels to severe weather events and public health crises.
In their place, a new generation of clean, renewable energy sources is rapidly emerging. These alternatives are not only more sustainable and environmentally friendly, but in many cases, they are now cheaper than fossil fuels. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), renewable power has become the most cost-effective option for new electricity generation in many parts of the world.
Below, we explore five major types of renewable energy, how they work, where they are thriving, and why they are vital for creating a resilient, low-carbon global economy.
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