Renewable energies propose solutions to pressing issues
of global concern in all dimensions of sustainable development:
economical, ecological, and social.
Poverty eradication is the most pressing issue of development policy,
as captured in the Millennium Development Goals. Access to modern energy and reliable energy supply have been identified as
a crucial factors for
development, while rising energy costs are a significant risk. Renewable
energy technologies are part of the traditional energy systems and offer
solutions for sustainable future systems. REN21 has focused on this key
global issue and demonstrates by means of examples the role renewable
energy can play in poverty reduction.
Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most serious concerns of our time.
REN21 strives to highlight the contribution that renewable energies can
bring to reducing our energy-related CO2 emissions. The effects of climate change already demand
reaction and adaptation. At the same time, efforts to mitigate climate
change must be reinforced. The rapid expansion of renewables is arguably one of the
most effective options to mitigate climate
change and adapt to its effects.
Energy security has risen to the top of the political agenda again
since 2005. Its
meaning, though, has expanded from the mere reliability of supply to include a variety of issues.
The term today covers various aspects, from
security of infrastructure, of investment regimes, of long-term
resources availability, of revenues for suppliers
to security from risks of price variations
for consumers,
access to energy and others. Recent studies show how renewable
energy contributes to energy security in most of its dimensions.
Renewable energy is considered generally as sustainable
energy. Nonetheless,
environmental and social issues of renewable energy
technologies do arise with increasing significance,
increasing project size and energy-related trade. Guidelines and recommendations for
sustainable practices in renewable energy applications are becoming increasingly
important.
