Standpoint

Well, my topic deals with the dark side of renewable energies delving into the current situation, the hidden agenda
and key measures to ensure their effectiveness. To begin with, I am energy engineer graduate, so it might seem
unconventional to tackle the drawbacks within our field, yet I disagree with the current situation. Definitely,
renewable energies is playing an essential role worldwide nowadays. While the promise of a cleaner, sustainable
future through them is undeniable, it's crucial to acknowledge that all that glitters is not gold. The inconvenient
truths must be faced —environmental repercussions such as the ecological footprint, unforeseen ecological
disturbances like the humming and whooshing of wind farms, and even unintended consequences on local
communities. Recognizing these challenges is not a rejection of progress but a call for a more comprehensive and
responsible approach towards achieving a truly sustainable future.

Current situation

My country, Spain, is reported to be one of the leading countries where more renewable energy has been used for
years, but might all this energy produced be used by us? Regardless of whether it is used or not, green energies
receive government funding from a so-called Next Generation Plan, whose budget is often wasted on constructing
new wind farms not addressing the repowering needs of the existing ones.

Regarding solar panels, laws have been enacted to have them set up, but might they be as profitable as
announced? Installing them on your roof is financially viable only with economic aids, which is absurd as the most
efficient panels only last 10 years, so it tends not to be cost-effective. Moreover, this energy depends on outer
conditions, and a significant amount of it is lost during transportation due to the need for long-distance transport
infrastructure before reaching the main electrical grid. Inconclusive, right?

Hidden agenda

Despite the drawbacks, during some years, energy producers have been being granted some economic aids to
promote this type of energy. In the case of hydroelectric plants, they have taken advantage to earn money, since
energy trade works through auctions grabbing this chance to generate electricity at their convenience albeit
unneeded. The bottom line here is countries and corporations compete to secure strategic advantages in the global
energy landscape, driven by profit-led motives, and navigate intricate webs of subsidies and incentives.

Measures to make them effective

To sum up, what should be done to maximize the effectiveness of renewable energy? A multifaceted approach is
essential. Firstly, a sustained commitment to research and development must be achieved, fostering innovations
that enhance the efficiency and affordability of renewable technologies bearing in mind the market must be
controlled so it doesn't just turn into another dead-end business.
Simultaneously, comprehensive education and awareness campaigns are crucial to ensure public understanding of
the benefits and limitations of renewable energies.

So, are we heading in the right direction for a more effective and sustainable integration of renewable energies into
our global energy landscape? I’m not thoroughly sure.

Might you have any question?

 HABLAR DE OTRAS ENERGÍAS

DE UNA TRAMAPA DE ESAS DE LAS EMPRESAS…

Additionally, the extraction and processing of rare materials for renewable technologies
contribute to environmental challenges, raising questions about the true ecological footprint
of these seemingly virtuous endeavors.

Moreover, striking a balance between environmental conservation and socio-economic considerations is necessary,
emphasizing community engagement and addressing potential negative impacts.

For example, most wind farms are administratively divided into two projects because, up to a certain power
capacity, they received funding, thus obtaining double support to boost their development.