Paying back our balance: can advances in renewable energy play a leading role in offsetting anthropogenic sources for climate change

Abstract

The overwhelming majority of climate scientists agree that human activities, especially the combustion of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, increasingly contribute to the change of the climate currently observed. Moreover, they are confident that global temperatures will continue to rise for decades to come posing a threat to flora, fauna, and humankind. Anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions are currently higher than ever and the largest single source of global emissions is the energy sector. Therefore, one of the most effective ways to combat human-induced climate change is through the application of alternative sources of energy, such as solar, wind, and hydro power. The European Union had recognised this and requested in 2009 its member states to develop National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAP) explaining how each country expects to reach its legally binding 2020 target. The overall EU target for renewable energy use by the year 2020 is 20%. The paper looks closely into the potential and objectives of three European countries ¿ Norway, Spain, and Cyprus - investigating their individual strategies for reaching their commitments. Notwithstanding the apparent moderate progression in efficiency technology and cost effectiveness, renewable energies have the potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, thus counterbalancing anthropogenic changes to the global climate, contributing to social and economic development and moving each country toward a clean energy future.