Making the Switch
The global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is critical to addressing climate change, improving public health, and achieving energy security. While challenges and differing opinions exist, the technologies for a 100% renewable energy future are largely available, requiring policy changes and increased investment to accelerate the shift.
(Statement derived from No Miracles Needed by Mark Jacobson, Pew Research Center report "How Americans view transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy" and UN article "Five ways to jump-start the renewable energy transition now")
Scientific evidence confirms human activities are causing planetary-scale changes, with "dramatic and long-lasting ramifications"
Ending reliance on fossil fuels, the primary driver of climate change, is crucial
The transition must happen quickly, as emissions need to fall 45% by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5C
Wind, water, and solar technologies can provide plentiful, cheap, and clean energy
Shifting to renewables will reduce air pollution, leading to significant public health improvements
Renewable energy strengthens energy security, decreasing dependence on foreign energy sources.
Electrified systems are more efficient than fossil fuel-based ones, leading to potential energy savings and lower costs
Most Americans prioritize renewable energy development over fossil fuel expansion
However, a significant portion of Americans, particularly Republicans, believe the U.S. should never stop using fossil fuels
There is broad support for expanding solar and wind power, though partisan divides exist and Republican support has declined recently
Policy barriers, including fossil fuel subsidies and lack of streamlined processes for renewable energy projects, hinder the transitio
According to Professor Mark Jacobson, the technologies needed for a 100% renewable energy future are already available
Concerns about grid stability with intermittent renewable sources can be addressed through energy storage, demand management, and wider grid connections
Mining concerns are mitigated by the significantly reduced extraction required compared to fossil fuel systems
Alternative technologies like carbon capture and storage, blue hydrogen, and new nuclear are considered too expensive, slow, and inefficient compared to renewables