There are seven 100% renewable energy countries leading the charge as global adoption soars.
The fight against climate change demands a global shift towards cleaner energy sources. Annual growth must be at least 320 gigawatts by 2030 to meet the COP28 agreement of tripling renewable energy by the end of this decade. In this battle, a select group of nations has emerged as examples of what to do right, leading the charge in renewable energy adoption. While the world grapples with the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels, seven renewable energy countries stand out, generating a staggering 99.7% or more of their electricity from renewable sources like geothermal, hydro, solar, and wind power.
At the forefront of the 100% renewable energy countries list are Albania, Bhutan, Ethiopia, Iceland, Nepal, Paraguay, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These nations, geographically diverse and with varying economic landscapes, serve as testaments to the diverse pathways toward a renewable future.
- Albania: Nestled in the Balkan Peninsula, Albania harnesses the power of its rivers to generate a significant portion of its electricity, with hydropower contributing an estimated 70-80% depending on rainfall. While fossil fuels still play a role, Albania is actively pursuing renewable energy sources like solar and wind, aiming to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.
- Iceland: Nestled on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland boasts a unique geological advantage. Volcanic activity heats vast underground reservoirs, making geothermal energy the backbone of its electricity generation, contributing a staggering 70%. Hydropower and wind energy make up the remaining 25% and 5%, respectively, solidifying Iceland’s position as a true leader in clean energy.
- Bhutan: Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan harnesses the power of its fast-flowing rivers to generate a remarkable 90% of its electricity through hydropower. This tiny nation prides itself on its commitment to environmental sustainability and is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goal of becoming carbon-negative by 2050.
- Ethiopia: The East African nation of Ethiopia is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Despite facing economic challenges, Ethiopia is rapidly expanding its renewable energy infrastructure, with hydropower currently accounting for around 90% of its electricity generation. The country boasts vast potential for geothermal and wind power, resources that are poised to play a larger role in its energy mix in the near future.
- Nepal: Nepal, often referred to as the “Land of Himalayas,” leverages its unique geography to generate electricity from a combination of sources. Hydropower contributes a significant portion, roughly 70% of the electricity generation. However, Nepal is also exploring the potential of wind and solar power, aiming for a more sustainable and diversified energy mix.
- Paraguay: South America has its own champion in renewable energy. Paraguay boasts a hydroelectric powerhouse on the Parana River, the Itaipu Dam, which generates a staggering 98% of the country’s electricity. Biomass contributes a small portion to the remaining 2%.
- The Democratic Republic of Congo: The vast hydroelectric potential of the Congo River remains largely untapped, but the DRC is taking significant strides towards harnessing this clean energy source. Currently, hydropower provides a significant portion of the country’s electricity, with estimates suggesting it contributes over 90%. Solar and wind power hold immense potential for future development.
See also: ‘100% Renewables is Possible’.
The leadership demonstrated by these seven 100% renewable energy countries is remarkable, but the good news extends beyond them. A recent study by Professor Mark Jacobson of Stanford University reveals a heartening global trend – an additional 40 countries managed to generate at least half of their electricity from renewables in 2021 and 2022. Europe is a significant contributor to this growth, with 11 nations exceeding the 50% mark.
Furthermore, countries like Germany and Portugal have showcased the potential for short-term, 100% renewable energy use. While these are not 100% renewable energy countries all the time and are typically dependent on favorable weather conditions, they demonstrate the significant progress made in integrating renewables into the grid and offer a glimpse of a future powered entirely by clean energy.
The success stories of 100% renewable energy countries and the rising global adoption of renewable energy in general offer hope in the fight against climate change. These advancements contribute to a cleaner environment, reduced dependence on fossil fuels, and a more sustainable future for generations to come. As technology improves and costs continue to decline, renewable energy is poised to play a vital role in powering our planet.
This positive trend, however, shouldn’t overshadow the challenges that remain. Energy storage solutions need further development to ensure a stable grid when renewable energy sources aren’t at full capacity. Additionally, international cooperation and investment are crucial to support developing nations in their transition to join the list of 100% renewable energy countries. Developed nations can play a vital role by sharing technological advancements and financial resources to bridge the gap and accelerate the global shift towards renewables.
The path towards 100% renewable energy countries in the future is not without its challenges. Here are some key areas that require ongoing focus:
- Energy Storage: As the reliance on renewable sources like solar and wind power grows, efficient and cost-effective energy storage solutions are needed to compensate for fluctuations in these intermittent sources. Advancements in battery technology and pumped hydro storage are crucial to ensuring a stable and reliable electricity grid.
- Grid Modernization: Many existing power grids were designed for centralized fossil fuel generation. Upgrading these grids to accommodate the distributed nature of renewable energy sources like solar and wind is essential for optimal integration and efficiency.
- Policy and Incentives: Government policies incentivizing renewable energy production and discouraging reliance on fossil fuels can significantly accelerate the transition. This could include feed-in tariffs for renewable energy producers, tax breaks for individuals and businesses adopting clean energy solutions, and carbon pricing mechanisms to discourage dependence on fossil fuels.
- Public Education and Awareness: Shifting mindsets and fostering public support for renewable energy projects are crucial for long-term success. Raising awareness of the environmental benefits and economic opportunities associated with clean energy can help build public acceptance and encourage broader participation in the transition.
A Brighter Future Beckons
Despite the challenges, the progress made by these leading 100% renewable energy countries and the growing global momentum towards renewable energy adoption offers a reason for optimism. As technology improves, storage solutions become more efficient, and international collaboration intensifies, the transition to a clean energy future becomes increasingly feasible.
By prioritizing innovation, investing in infrastructure upgrades, and implementing supportive policies, we can pave the way for a more sustainable future powered by clean energy sources. This will not only safeguard our environment for generations to come but also create new economic opportunities and foster a more secure energy future for all.
