Renewable Energy: Technologies, Applications and Trends

Renewable energy is leading the global drive for a sustainable energy future. Renewable resources-such as solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, biomass, geothermal energy, and wave and tidal power-offer a number of benefits over conventional forms of energy. Some of the unique features of renewable resources are that they are indigenous, abundant, widely distributed, and environmentally friendly. Owing to these advantages, the use of renewable energy is rapidly expanding around the world. In rural and distant areas around the world, renewable technologies, especially solar photovoltaic (PV), are essential for supplying energy needs. To maintain a sustainable energy and environmental outlook for the world, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations consider renewable technology essential. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of renewable systems in terms of technologies and their applications. It also discusses the technology and policy advancements around renewable energy. It concludes that in order to seek energy sustainability, mitigate climate change, and adhere to the climate goals and pledges established in international agreements like the Paris Agreement, renewable energy is crucial. Nations can drastically cut their carbon footprint and support international efforts to keep global warming to well below 2° C by switching to renewable energy sources.