High-performance solar systems are making a difference in the lives of millions of people around the world. Many countries are gradually (but surely) making the transition to renewable energy sources, and some are ahead of the others.
The unified target for 2050, which is 100 percent renewable energy may seem like a pipe dream. Yet, we can draw inspiration from the success stories and huge efforts of these top names in sustainable power.
The U.S.
Some of the largest solar power plants are located in America. While federal regulations are stifling important contributors, individual states are encouraging homes and communities and challenging the average American community to avail offers from a local SunPower panel installer.
Iceland
The ambition of Iceland has paid off for its citizens, with its aggressive investments in renewable power, particularly in solar and wind. Almost all of its energy consumption is from renewable sources, specifically hydroelectric and geothermal power. Furthermore, Iceland has stepped it with drastic but effective changes in transportation and energy storage.
China
China was, and to some extent still is notorious for its significant carbon footprint. Today, China is the largest producer of solar panels and producer of photovoltaic electricity.
The government target for solar panel installation for the year 2020 has already been achieved, and the country is surpassing its own elevated objectives when it comes to renewables.
Sweden
Sweden’s political will to eliminate the use of fossil fuels within its borders is something to emulate. This ambitious and challenging goal were achieved in 2015. At this time, Sweden continues to invest in wind and solar energy sources and making inroads in clean transport systems as well.
Germany
Many countries that are ramping up their energy capabilities are in Europe, and Germany is on the leader board. The country was a pioneer in grid-scale solar power use and photovoltaic production. Germany is still aspiring to achieve ambitious targets and expanding the use of renewable sources throughout the country.
Japan
In 2016, the Land of the Rising Sun was able to generate about 5 percent of total power consumption via solar energy. This achievement was fueled by initiatives to shift to solar following nuclear mishaps.
Costa Rica
The small Central American country that is surrounded by Pacific and Caribbean waters made the headline twice recently when it ran completely in renewable energy for two months.
The small population contributes to the achievement of this feat, but no one can take away from Costa Rica its admirable efforts to utilize available renewable sources such as geothermal, wind, as well as solar.
The U.K.
Wind farms and scattered turbines are gradually making an impact on the U.K. Its people used to depend mainly on coal as a power source, but renewable energy sources are more dominant nowadays. The leader in wind energy utilization is Scotland, and the rest are following suit.
Many countries are producing visible results. Nevertheless, individual citizens must still make the conscious choice to revert to renewable sources of power for their daily activities.
