There are several countries that are leading the way in renewable energy. France and Germany are leading examples. China is the largest carbon emitter in the world, and is also a leader in renewable energy. India and Morocco are two other countries leading the way. The United States is however still far behind.
France and Germany are top two countries for renewable energy.
France and Germany rank first in renewable energy. Their energy mixes have grown steadily over the past decades. France, which generates 75 percent of its electricity via renewable energy in 2010, is a net electricity exporter, earning more than three billion euro per year. France is also the leader in nuclear power, contributing more then half of its electricity.
Although the country has made significant progress towards its renewable energy goals, it is far from carbon-neutral. German government has asked citizens to reduce their carbon emission as much as possible with the goal of eliminating all fossil-fuel use by 2020. It is not an easy task but Germany must keep its emissions at a minimum.
China is the world's largest carbon emitter
The rapid development of China's economy has pushed hundreds of millions of people out of poverty, but China is also the world's biggest carbon emitter, accounting for one third of global CO2 emissions and providing more than half the world's cement and steel. China is projected to release 16 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases by 2030, which is more than four times the amount it produced in 1800. We'll be facing a serious global climate crisis if this trend continues.
China is taking steps to reduce its dependence on oil. It has committed that it will generate a third from renewable energy by 2025. But it is still largely dependent on coal and other non-renewable energy sources. Its energy choices play a crucial role in determining the future trajectory of emissions and achieving its goal of carbon neutrality by 2060.
India is a world leader in renewable energy.
India is one the most rapidly growing countries when it comes to renewable energy. India's non-fossil energy consumption has increased by more that 25% in the last seven years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi estimates that the country's total renewable energy capacity will exceed double by 2021. The country's demand for power is expected increase to 817GW by 2030. This will be mainly due to growth in the realty and transport industries. Rising foreign investment in renewable energy projects is expected to encourage further growth in this sector.
India currently has a record of 147 megawatts of renewable energy. It is the fourth-largest country with this amount. This is significant given the country's vast landmass, which spans more than 3.3 million square kilometers. India's energy mix still includes a lot of thermal energy. However, it is expected that India will increase its use of renewable energy.
Morocco is one the countries most affected by climate warming
Morocco is already experiencing the impacts of climate change. By 2060, the mean annual temperature will rise between 1.1C to 3.5C. This is more than the projected global increase. Already, the country has adopted several green policies to preserve its natural resources, increase resilience of agriculture, and adapt to climate change. These policies are creating new opportunities and reducing the country's dependence on fossil fuels.
Morocco is one of those countries that are trying to tackle climate change through the introduction of renewable energy projects. The country's ambitious energy strategy currently includes the construction 20 concentrated solar power stations. It is also phasing down fossil fuel subsidies. Nearly two-thirds (or more) of the country's total energy production can now be attributed to renewable sources.
Morocco is one of those countries that are rushing to build clean energy infrastructure
Morocco is one of many countries working towards clean energy infrastructure. The government is making a significant step in that direction. Although Morocco's economy is heavily dependent on tourism it is increasing its focus on other industries. Agriculture, which employs 45% of the working population, accounts for 12% of its GDP, but other industries, including mining, manufacturing, and textile production, are also booming. These sectors are subject to energy costs ranging between 3% and 30 percent, which is a major factor in industrial investment decisions.
The government has set a goal to produce 4 trillion watts of renewable energy per year by 2030. This will be enough to supply both the domestic and growing international markets. Through investment in renewable infrastructure, the country supports more than 15,000 job creation. Morocco has a huge renewable energy potential. The country has placed great emphasis on diversifying its energy mix, protecting our environment and decreasing dependence on foreign energy. Morocco is now one of the world's leading renewable energy producers.