Renewable Energy vs. Fossil Fuels: The Facts, the Myths, and the Future

Introduction

In today’s time, energy is very important for the survival of human civilization. Because this energy provides electricity, it enables communication and transportation. Our daily tasks are now mostly dependent on energy. But if we talk about the energy sources, we will find that these are different. Renewable resources produce energy by natural processes, such as hydro, wind, and geothermal. On the other hand, fossil fuels are organic matter; for example, we can obtain energy from coal, oil, and many others. The main difference between these resources is that fossil fuels are non-renewable.

Moreover, both are different in price and impact. Through comparison and contrast, we will discover various impacts and prospects of these energy resources. Ultimately, we can differentiate between true and false assumptions against these resources.

Comparison Between Renewable Energy And Fossil Fuels

i. Cost

Many factors, such as demand, policy, and supply, affect the cost of these energy resources. Renewable energy has become more popular in recent years due to its low cost and no side effects. Unlikely, Fossil fuels are expensive and have bad environmental effects due to carbon emissions.

According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), it is estimated that between 2010 and 2019, the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) fell by 82%, with a 39% decline of onshore wind and 29% decline of offshore wind. At the same time, the LCOE of fossil fuel-fired power plants has remained intact over the years.

In many parts of the world, renewable energy is much more cost-effective than fossil fuels. For example, in Europe, China, and India, renewable energy is much more affordable than coal plants or other fossil fuels.

Furthermore, it is also true that the cost of energy resources varies in every sector. For example, higher upfront capital costs or storage requirements sometimes affect renewable energy costs. Moreover, its accessibility depends on various factors such as weather, seasons, or less availability in some areas. So, this factor is also needed to consider while comparing.

ii. Reliability

Many factors, such as infrastructure, weather, geography, and technology, influence reliability. The resources with enough supply are more reliable, and situations and locations greatly impact it.

Let’s look at the availability of natural resources that produce renewable energy, such as sunlight and wind. Both vary from time to time and are not available continuously. For example, we would not have sun rays at night, sky covered by the sky would also result in obstruction, and thus solar energy would only sometimes be produced. Similarly, the intensity and direction of the wind would also impact energy production. Thus, where there is great demand for energy and the supply is low, renewable resources are less reliable there. Both solar and wind energy would only be able to meet demand when nature is supportive enough for production.

However, this problem can be overcome by integrating different renewable systems, making them more reliable. For example, combining solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal into a system is far more reliable than fossil fuels. Moreover, excessive energy can be saved for use when there is not enough production and modern grids can be installed to avoid line losses.

A study conducted in the US found that the national grid of the States could easily accommodate 80% of renewable energy reliably by 2050. It also found that by this, the carbon emissions would be reduced by 80% by the levels of 2010. However, it also recommended certain changes to be implemented to secure this. Another study in 2016 also predicted that renewable energy could meet 70% of global energy needs with existing technologies, but it highlighted certain challenges that need to be overcome first.

iii. Environmental impact

While comparing both energy sources, the environmental impact is the most important factor to underline. They impact our surroundings differently, such as their contribution percentage to gas emissions, air pollution, wastage, etc. So, we will find out which source is eco-friendly.

Greenhouse gas emissions are major contributors to global warming and climate change. Fossil fuels emit gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide gases, which are harmful to the atmosphere. On the other hand, renewable energy emits meager or no greenhouse gases. In comparison, fossil fuels are more responsible for the emission of greenhouse gases.

Air pollution: Air pollution is a harmful substance in our air. It can affect our lungs, respiratory system, and health. It can cause cancer, heart disease, and respiratory diseases. Fossil fuels are, again, a big reason for the increased air pollution. According to a report that IEA released, stated that less use of fossil fuels and more use of renewable energy can avoid 4 million premature deaths by 2040.

Water consumption: The world is worried about less availability and downgrading water quality. Water is very important not only for humans but for ecology as well. The rapid water consumption by fossil fuels is distressing and affecting water quality. Renewable energy consumes little water, whereas fossil fuels consume large amounts. DOE has released a report stating that more dependence on renewable energy can reduce water consumption by 23% by 2030.

Land use: Occupation of land by energy resources is very frequent. The use of land for different purposes can affect the ecosystem and biodiversity. A large amount of land is occupied by fossil fuel purposes such as mining, power generation, and transportation. On the other hand, renewable energy only occupies a little land.

FAQs

Final Analysis

Both energy sources have different impacts on us and our surroundings. Compared to fossil fuels, renewable energy is durable, cost-effective, and reliable. But there are some threats and limitations that need to be resolved. Renewable energy is a source of clean, safe, and affordable electricity, and it also emits no greenhouse gas causing global warming. There is a need for investment and proper research to make it more accessible, refined, and progressive.