Is 100% Renewable Energy Feasible for Entire Countries?

Our energy sector is witnessing a significant shift towards renewable sources. One of the pioneering companies, Meridian Energy, has successfully transitioned to 100% renewable energy. This transition is marked by increased profits, with their Hydroelectric, Geothermal, Wind Farms, and Solar Arrays proving to be highly efficient. In fact, Meridian Energy has reported record profits without increasing electricity costs to their consumers. Their Te Utu Wind Farm, for instance, produces such an abundant amount of electricity that they cannot use it all, leading to the decommissioning of their fossil fuel stations.

Looking at New Zealand, the goal is to achieve 90-95% renewable energy in the next 5-10 years. This progress reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. However, the journey is far from over. As sweet crude oil becomes scarcer, it is becoming indispensable to transition to renewable energy sources. According to recent studies, photovoltaic solar power is the cheapest form of electricity at 15 cents per watt. This makes renewable energy not only necessary but also cost-effective in the long term, regardless of other factors.

Leading the Way: Countries with High Renewable Energy Usage

The global leaders in renewable energy include Iceland and Norway. Iceland stands out with 86.87% of its energy coming from renewable sources, primarily geothermal. Norway follows close behind with 71.56% renewable energy, mostly from hydropower. These nations serve as examples of what can be achieved when a strong commitment to renewable energy is made.

However, achieving 100% renewable energy is a significant challenge, even for these leading countries. The transition requires substantial investments in infrastructure, particularly in battery storage technology. Currently, the cost of batteries is still prohibitive for widespread implementation. Take Texas, for example, a state with diverse energy sources. While Texas has reliable wind resources, it still relies heavily on natural gas, coal, and nuclear power to meet its energy demands. Providing energy for a population of 30 million and growing while maintaining a modern lifestyle presents a daunting challenge.

Is Nuclear Power Considered "Renewable"?

When discussing renewable energy, it is often overlooked that nuclear power, while not renewable in the traditional sense, is often referred to as a low-carbon source. Some argue that nuclear power should be considered renewable because it does not emit carbon during operation. However, the waste and decommissioning processes raise environmental and safety concerns that complicate its classification. The pursuit of truly renewable energy sources remains a primary focus.

Challenges and Solutions for Widespread Adoption

For countries that lack sufficient hydro or geothermal resources, the transition to 100% renewable energy is exceptionally challenging. Currently, it is estimated that it would take about 200 years for the rest of the world to achieve this level of adoption based on the current battery technology. However, ongoing research and technological advancements in solar, wind, and battery storage technologies are providing hope for a more feasible future.

The road to 100% renewable energy is paved with innovation, investment, and global cooperation. As more countries take steps towards renewable energy, the world moves closer to a cleaner, more sustainable future. The shift is not just a necessity; it is also an opportunity for economic growth and environmental stewardship.

Keywords: renewable energy, 100% renewable, carbon-free electricity