Renewable energy: Still lots of room for gains

Article Excerpt

When we last wrote about this topic in mid-2018, the conclusion was that the share of renewable energy was growing rapidly. That reflects government-driven efforts, especially in Europe, the U.S. and Canada, to expand renewable capacity. Demand is also strong from power-using corporations, looking to increase their green footprints—in part to please shareholders. Oil and gas producers are also interested in building or buying renewable power projects, which further boosts demand. The UN Paris Agreement, signed by 191 countries in 2016, and now rejoined by the U.S., commits the world to limit global warming to 1.5-2.0 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial era levels over the long term. Currently, 90% of the world’s energy supply still comes from fossil fuels, which are responsible for most greenhouse gases. However, it would seem that public opinion and many governments are pushing for more urgent change. Change is coming, but it will take time Scientific evidence indicates that one significant cause of climate change is the release of greenhouse gases…