Newly compiled data reveals that seven countries have achieved a groundbreaking feat, generating over 99.7% of their electricity from renewable sources. Albania, Bhutan, Nepal, Paraguay, Iceland, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are leading the charge, utilizing geothermal, hydro, solar, or wind power to meet their energy needs. Moreover, an additional 40 nations, including 11 European countries, have made significant strides, with at least half of their electricity stemming from renewables in 2021 and 2022.
Mark Jacobson, a Stanford University Professor, who published the data, emphasizes the feasibility of this transition, advocating for the utilization of Wind, Water, and Solar (WWS) technologies. He asserts that widespread electrification, coupled with renewable energy sources, can effectively curb emissions. Notably, countries like Germany have demonstrated the capability to rely entirely on renewable-generated electricity for brief periods.
In the UK, renewable energy accounted for 41.5% of electricity generation in 2022, marking a substantial increase. Scotland, in particular, excelled, with renewable technologies surpassing its total electricity consumption by 113%. These achievements signify significant progress toward achieving net-zero emissions.
The momentum behind solar energy is particularly noteworthy, with advancements in efficiency and cost reduction propelling it toward dominance in global electricity markets. Scientists predict that solar energy, driven by innovations like perovskite, is poised to become the primary energy source by 2050. A 2023 study highlights the irreversible trajectory of solar energy, indicating a paradigm shift toward clean and economically viable energy solutions.
