10 Countries Driving Renewable Energy Innovation

The concept of renewable energy is not novel, as it has gained significant traction, already constituting over a quarter of global electricity production. 

Nations globally are advancing towards a net-zero future by extensively implementing renewable energy sources. Through innovation, ambition, and a collective drive towards sustainability, certain nations have emerged as leaders in this transition. While not universally empirical in every aspect, these countries showcase intriguing approaches to renewable energy.

What Is The Difference Between Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy sources are inexhaustible; they can regenerate continuously without human intervention. These natural sources, like wind and solar power solutions, release minimal greenhouse gases, making them “clean” or “green” energies.

In contrast, non-renewable energy sources, or fossil fuels, have finite reserves that can be depleted. Their extraction process is slow, posing challenges to meeting current consumption rates.

Countries Leading The Way In Renewable Energy 

The transition to electricity derived from renewable energy sources is rapidly gaining momentum. Data from a company called Enerdata discovered that in 2022, about 30% of the world’s electricity was coming from renewables, showing a big push towards sustainability. Keep on reading to discover these 10 countries that are driving renewable energy innovation. 

Norway

Norway shines as a global leader in prioritising renewable energy adoption. Its energy sector relies heavily on renewable sources, particularly abundant hydropower resources that rank as Europe’s largest, thanks to Norway’s unique topography and geographic location.

In addition to its established hydroelectric capacity, Norway is expanding into offshore wind power projects, acknowledging their substantial promise. At present, hydro and wind power together account for over 98 per cent of Norway’s electricity generation.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is another country that is leading the way in renewable energy creation and consumption. Most impressively, the last four years have seen the country use renewable sources for 98.53% of its electricity.

This demonstrates to the world how well-planned public policies can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and achieve energy independence. The nation tapped into its abundant resources, including rivers, volcanoes, wind, and solar energy, to meet its power needs.

Denmark

Denmark serves as a testing ground for sustainable solutions. Over the past four decades, Denmark’s economy has expanded by nearly 80%, all while maintaining stable energy consumption levels. By 2030, Denmark aims to achieve a fossil fuel-free electricity system, marking a significant step towards sustainability.

Kenya

Kenya holds the top position in Africa and ranks seventh globally in installed geothermal power generation capacity. According to the industry regulator, the nation annually produces over 12,652.74 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity, primarily sourced from geothermal and hydroelectric power, with wind and solar energy making significant strides. Thermal sources contribute to the remaining power. 

Brazil

Brazil boasts a thriving renewables sector, constituting over 39% of its total internal energy supply. Notably, Brazil stands out for not having legislative targets for renewable energy expansion. However, it has pledged to increase non-hydro renewables to 20% of its electricity supply by 2030.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s energy landscape is quite diverse, featuring notable contributions from hydropower and geothermal sources. As the country sets out on an exciting journey towards a more sustainable energy future, it enjoys numerous natural benefits, including a robust renewable resource foundation.

Already boasting a clean and low-emissions electricity system, New Zealand relies on renewable sources for over 80% of its electricity needs.

Portugal 

Portugal recently achieved a remarkable milestone in global energy production by operating solely on renewable energy for six consecutive days.

Between 4:00 am on October 31st and 9:00 am on November 6th, the nation, with a population of ten million, generated 1102GWh of electricity using only renewable sources. From household appliances to industrial factories, all relied exclusively on wind, hydro, or solar power during this period.

Germany

In 2022, almost half of Germany’s power came from renewable sources, making it a top spot for home battery storage solutions. Around 120,000 households are getting their energy from solar panels paired with batteries.

Plus, Germany is aiming high, planning to get a whopping 80% of its electricity from renewables by 2050!

United Kingdom

In the UK, wind turbines are spinning to the tune of 11,000, powering a quarter of the nation’s electricity needs. Thanks to cool tech and government support, solar power is also soaring, with Solar Energy UK reporting a big jump in solar energy use. Looks like the solar scene in the UK is shining brighter than ever!

China

China isn’t just a powerhouse in making wind and solar gear; they’re also big on using renewable energy, covering nearly a third of their power needs.

And get this: Chinese scientists are even thinking about solar power stations in space! They’re aiming high, looking into setting up solar stations orbiting way above Earth. Talk about reaching for the stars!

Morocco

Morocco aims to boost the proportion of renewables in its electricity generation to 52 per cent by 2030 and 80 per cent by 2050. Hosting the world’s largest solar power plant, the country is committed to sustainability.

By eliminating fossil fuel subsidies and pursuing technological advancements in energy storage, green hydrogen, and cost reduction, Morocco is paving the way for achieving 80% renewable energy by 2050.