Why Is Renewable Energy Important?

Like, a lot. 

That’s not all renewables have to offer, though. Here are some other key reasons why renewable energy is important, especially in today’s energy ecosystem.

They’re leading the fight against climate change.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that our planet is under significant stress. The burning of fossil fuels—something we’ve been doing for way too long now—releases tons of carbon emissions into the atmosphere, contaminating the air and contributing to global warming. 

Renewables are emissions-free. Plus, they don’t require long-haul transportation, like oil and other fossil fuels, because the energy is generated right at the source.

If you spent the summer in the U.S. this year, you were probably subjected to a heat wave or two. Or perhaps you were in the Midwest during the disastrous floods this year. These kinds of extreme weather events will show no signs of stopping if we don’t curb emissions and switch to renewable energy sources.

Clean energy promotes environmental justice. 

Historically, marginalized and low-income communities have been subjected to poor environmental conditions due to structural racism and social inequities. Across the country, these communities are placed by highways, fossil fuel generators, and power plants, leading to disproportionate levels of diseases like cancer and asthma.

Your race, socioeconomic status, or geographical location shouldn’t determine whether you get to live in a safe, healthy environment. Emissions-free energy improves air, soil, and water quality to keep those communities free of environmental toxins. 

The renewable energy sector spurs the economy and creates new jobs. 

The renewable energy sector is booming. As a result, renewable energy generates new jobs and creates a positive ripple effect down the renewable energy supply chain. Today, jobs like solar panel manufacturing and wind turbine generator maintenance are commonplace—a stark contrast from the economy of twenty years ago.

Renewables offer energy security and price stability.

Renewable energy enables fuel diversification and provides a reliable power supply. What makes it reliable? Well, it’s unlimited—there’s no chance of running out in the near future. Reserves of fossil fuels like oil and coal will eventually run dry. 

Moreover, renewables don’t entail fuel costs or require transportation, meaning their prices are more stable than fossil fuels.

Renewables reduce energy dependence.

Renewable energy is domestic. The U.S. has the potential to generate 100% of its electricity needs with solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower. The ability to generate domestic power means nations don’t have to rely on foreign powers for fuel, which aids in global relations.

Ultimately, renewables are the key to safeguarding our future. We’d argue that’s worth talking about!