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The role of renewable energies in the transition to
a sustainable energy model: Challenges and
opportunities
El papel de las energías renovables en la transición hacia un
modelo energético sostenible: Retos y oportunidades
Dayana Mishell Alvarez Constante
*
Carlos Rolando Rosero Erazo
*
ABSTRACT
This study focused on the important role of
renewable energies in the transition to a sustainable
energy model and assessed their benefits, challenges
and opportunities. Renewable energies have been
identified as an important solution to respond to
climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions
and diversifying the energy matrix. However,
challenges have been identified, including the scarcity
and variability of renewable energy sources, high
upfront costs and the need for infrastructure
improvements. However, significant opportunities in
energy storage were highlighted, including
technological advances, favorable policies and
regulations, and financial innovations. The positive
socio-economic impact of renewable energy on job
creation, social development and poverty reduction
has also been demonstrated. In summary, the
importance of harnessing the potential of renewable
energy and addressing current challenges is key to
moving towards a more secure and sustainable
future.
* Environmental Biotechnology Engineer , Independent
Researcher dayanaalvarezc@outlook.com
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6500-932X
*Forestry Engineer. Superior Polytechnic School of Chimborazo.
Research Technician, Research and Development Group for
Environment and Climate Change (GIDAC).
carlos.roseroe@espoch.edu.ec
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2691-5578
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Keywords: renewable energies, energy
sustainability, climate change, challenges,
opportunities.
RESUMEN
Este estudio se centra en el importante papel de las
energías renovables en la transición hacia un modelo
energético sostenible y evalúa sus beneficios, retos y
oportunidades. Las energías renovables se han
identificado como una solución importante para
responder al cambio climático reduciendo las
emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero y
diversificando la matriz energética. Sin embargo, se
han identificado retos, como la escasez y variabilidad
de las fuentes de energía renovables, los elevados
costes iniciales y la necesidad de mejorar las
infraestructuras. Sin embargo, se destacaron
importantes oportunidades en el almacenamiento de
energía, como los avances tecnológicos, las políticas
y normativas favorables y las innovaciones
financieras. También se ha demostrado el impacto
socioeconómico positivo de las energías renovables
en la creación de empleo, el desarrollo social y la
reducción de la pobreza. En resumen, la importancia
de aprovechar el potencial de las energías renovables
y abordar los retos actuales es clave para avanzar
hacia un futuro más seguro y sostenible.
Palabras clave: energías renovables, sostenibilidad
energética, cambio climático, retos, oportunidades.
INTRODUCTION
The transition to a sustainable energy model has become a global imperative in the fight
against climate change and the search for a more prosperous and equitable future
(Jacobson et al.,2020). In this context, the role of renewable energies acquires a
fundamental relevance. This article delves into the analysis of how renewable energies
are shaping this transition towards a more sustainable energy system, exploring both the
inherent challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead.
Renewable energies, which include sources such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass and
geothermal, represent a key alternative to fossil fuels because of their ability to provide
energy sustainably, without depleting finite resources or generating greenhouse gas
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40
emissions (Denholmet al.,2021). This approach not only contributes to the reduction of
carbon emissions, but also promotes energy security and stimulates long-term economic
development (Fawcett et al.,2020).
One of the main drivers of this transition is the urgency of addressing climate change
and its devastating impacts. As the effects of global warming become increasingly evident,
from extreme weather events to biodiversity loss, the need to reduce our dependence
on fossil fuels becomes imperative (Arora et al.,2020). Renewable energies offer a viable
and necessary solution to decarbonize our economy and mitigate climate risks, aligning
with international commitments such as the Paris Agreement (Wills et al.,2020).
In addition to their environmental benefits, renewable energy also offers significant
opportunities in terms of socioeconomic development. Investment in renewable energy
infrastructure can generate employment, stimulate technological innovation and improve
energy access, especially in marginalized or rural communities. Furthermore, by reducing
long-term operating costs, renewables can ensure greater energy equity and economic
stability (Ikegami et al., 2020).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
In this research, a literature review methodology was used to analyze the role of
renewable energies in the transition to a sustainable energy model, as well as the
associated challenges and opportunities. The literature review was carried out using
various sources of information, including academic databases, specialized journals,
reports from international organizations, books and other relevant documents in the
field of renewable energy and energy sustainability.
The literature search and selection process was carried out using keywords related to
the topic of study, such as "renewable energies", "energy transition", "sustainable energy
model", "challenges", "opportunities", among others. Priority was given to the inclusion
of recent research and publications to ensure the relevance and timeliness of the
information collected.
Once the relevant literature was compiled, a critical and systematic analysis of the
selected papers was conducted to identify trends, patterns, viewpoints and key findings
related to the research topic. Particular attention was paid to the different perspectives
and approaches presented in the literature, as well as to discrepancies and areas of
debate within the field.
In addition, comparisons and syntheses of the findings obtained from different sources
were made to develop a comprehensive and balanced understanding of the subject. Both
the positive aspects and the challenges associated with the use of renewable energies in
the transition to a sustainable energy model were highlighted in order to provide a
complete and objective view of the subject.
Finally, the results of the literature review were used to inform and support the
development of the discussion and conclusions of this study. A critical evaluation of the
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literature reviewed was provided, as well as recommendations for future research and
action in the field of renewable energy and energy sustainability.
Table 1. Stages of the methodology
Methodology stage
Actions performed
Literature search
- Selection of related keywords.
- Use of academic databases and specialized journals.
- Consultation of reports from international organizations and
books.
Selection of information
- Evaluation of the relevance and timeliness of the literature.
- Inclusion of recent research and publications.
Literature analysis
- Identification of trends, patterns and key findings.
- Critical and systematic analysis of selected documents.
- Comparisons and synthesis of findings from different sources.
Discussion of results
- Development of a comprehensive and balanced understanding
of the subject.
- Highlight positive aspects and challenges associated with the
use of renewable energies.
- Critical evaluation of the literature reviewed.
- Formulation of recommendations for future research and
actions.
Principle of the form
Source: Own elaboration
RESULTS
The research results revealed a number of significant findings regarding the role of
renewable energies in the transition to a sustainable energy model, as well as the
associated challenges and opportunities. The results are discussed in detail below:
Table 2. Contribution of renewable energies to energy sustainability.
Appearance
Findings
Emissions
Reduction
Renewable energies contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions, which promotes climate change mitigation.
Energy
Diversification
They allow diversification of the energy matrix, reducing dependence on
fossil fuels and improving energy security.
Long-term
Sustainability
Its renewable nature ensures the long-term availability of energy,
without depleting finite resources.
Source: Own elaboration
Renewable energies, by generating electricity without producing greenhouse gas
emissions during operation, play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions (Blanco et
al.,2020). This is especially relevant at a time when climate change mitigation is a global
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priority. By gradually replacing fossil fuels in sectors such as electricity generation,
transportation and heating, renewable energies can help meet emission reduction targets
set in international agreements (Galganiet al.,2021).
Diversification of the energy matrix is essential to ensure stability and security of energy
supply. Relying heavily on a single energy source, such as oil or natural gas, can expose
a country to risks of price volatility, supply shortages, or geopolitical disruptions (Barlow
et al.,2019). Incorporating renewables into the energy mix reduces this dependence,
which improves energy security and resilience to external shocks (Le et al.,2020).
One of the most outstanding advantages of renewable energies is their sustainable and
renewable nature. Unlike fossil fuels, whose extraction and consumption are finite and
not sustainable in the long term, renewable energies take advantage of abundant and
continuously available natural resources, such as sunlight, wind, water and biomass. This
feature ensures long-term energy availability and contributes to the preservation of
natural resources for future generations (Abdelaziz et al.,2021).
Taken together, these findings underscore the importance of renewables in the
transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy model. By reducing greenhouse gas
emissions, diversifying the energy matrix and ensuring the long-term availability of clean
energy, renewables are positioned as a comprehensive solution to address today's
energy and environmental challenges. However, it is crucial to address the obstacles
they still face, such as the technical and economic challenges in their large-scale
integration into the electricity grid, in order to maximize their positive impact on global
energy sustainability.
Table 3. Challenges in the integration of renewable energies
Challenge
Implications
Intermittency
and Variability
The intermittency and variability of renewable sources can pose
challenges in grid integration, requiring storage and demand management
solutions.
High Initial Costs
The initial costs of investing in renewable infrastructure can be high,
although they pay off in the long term through operational savings and
environmental benefits.
Infrastructure
and Logistics
Improvements in infrastructure and logistics are needed to facilitate the
implementation and operation of large-scale renewable energy projects.
Source: Own elaboration
One of the main challenges in the integration of renewable energies is their intermittent
and variable nature. Electricity generation from sources such as solar and wind is
dependent on weather and environmental factors, which can lead to fluctuations in
energy availability (Boone et al., 2021). This intermittency can pose challenges in power
grid management, especially at times of high demand or when weather conditions are
unfavorable for renewable generation. To address this challenge, large-scale energy
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storage solutions are required, as well as demand-side and smart grid management
technologies to efficiently integrate renewables into the electricity system (Hepbasliet
al.,2020).
Despite their long-term benefits, the initial investment in renewable infrastructure can
be significantly high. The installation costs of technologies such as solar panels, wind
turbines or hydropower plants can be a barrier to the widespread adoption of renewable
energy, especially in developing countries or countries with limited financial resources
(Chini et al.,2021). However, it is important to note that the costs of renewable
technologies have decreased considerably in recent decades, and this trend is expected
to continue as technology advances and the scale of production increases
(Esmaeilzadehet al.,2021).
The implementation of large-scale renewable energy projects requires adequate
infrastructure and efficient logistics (Kaviani et al., 2021). This includes the construction
of solar and wind farms, the installation of power transmission and distribution systems,
as well as the development of transportation networks for the transport of raw materials
and equipment. Effective planning and coordination between the different stakeholders
involved, including governments, private companies and local communities, are essential
to overcome logistical challenges and ensure the success of renewable projects (Finaet
al.,2021).
In summary, these challenges highlight the complexity of integrating renewables into the
existing energy system and underscore the need to address a range of technical,
economic and logistical considerations to ensure their successful adoption on a large
scale. While these obstacles may represent significant challenges, they also offer
opportunities for innovation and collaboration in developing technical and policy
solutions that will drive the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
Table 4. Opportunities for renewable energy expansion
Potentialities
Technological advances in energy storage and grid management can mitigate
the challenges of intermittency and variability.
Favorable policies and regulations can boost investment in renewable
energy, including tax incentives and subsidy programs.
Financial innovation, such as innovative financing mechanisms and long-term
power purchase agreements, can improve the economic viability of
renewable projects.
Source: Own elaboration
Technological advances in energy storage and grid management represent a key
opportunity to overcome the challenges associated with the intermittency and variability
of renewable energy (Nakata et al.,2020). Energy storage systems, such as lithium ion
batteries, thermal storage technologies, and hydroelectric storage solutions, allow
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excess energy generated during periods of high renewable production to be stored for
later use during times of low generation (Damgaard et al.,2020). Similarly, smart grid
management technologies make it possible to optimize energy distribution, coordinate
energy generation and consumption more efficiently, and anticipate and respond to
fluctuations in energy demand and supply (Al-Attar et al.,2020).
Favorable policies and regulations can play a crucial role in driving the expansion of
renewable energy. Tax incentives, government subsidies, renewable energy standards,
and market mechanisms such as emissions trading systems and minimum guarantee
prices can stimulate investment in renewable projects and create an enabling
environment for industry development (Castellazzi et al.,2021). Similarly, the
implementation of renewable energy integration policies in energy planning at the
national and regional levels can encourage the adoption of clean energy and accelerate
the transition to a more sustainable energy model (IEA, 2021).
Financial innovation plays a crucial role in the expansion of renewable energy by making
projects financially viable and attractive to investors(Chen et al.,2020). Innovative
financing mechanisms, such as green bonds, renewable energy investment funds, and
long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs), can help reduce capital costs and
improve the profitability of renewable projects. In addition, the increasing involvement
of the private sector in financing renewable projects and the development of innovative
business models, such as results-based financing and energy performance contracts, are
expanding access to capital for renewable energy expansion (Liu et al., 2020).
These opportunities therefore offer a promising path for expanding renewables and
accelerating the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy model. By
harnessing technological advances, implementing favorable policies and regulations, and
promoting financial innovation, we can overcome the obstacles and challenges facing
renewables and move toward a cleaner, more secure and sustainable energy future.
Table 5. Socioeconomic impact of renewable energy sources
Impact
Implications
Job Creation
The implementation of renewable projects can generate local
employment in sectors such as construction, operation and
maintenance.
Community
Development
Renewable energy can boost community development by providing
access to clean energy and encouraging investment in local
infrastructure.
Energy Poverty
Reduction
Improving access to affordable and sustainable energy can help reduce
energy poverty and improve the quality of life in vulnerable
communities.
Source: Own elaboration
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The implementation of renewable energy projects generates a wide range of
employment opportunities in various sectors (Hussainet al.,2021). From the
manufacturing and installation of renewable technologies to the operation and
maintenance of wind farms, solar plants and hydropower projects, renewable energy has
the potential to drive job creation at local, regional and national levels. In addition, the
development of supply chains and services associated with the renewable industry also
contributes to employment generation in related sectors, such as construction,
engineering and consulting (Mori et al.,2019).
Renewable energy can boost community development by providing access to clean,
sustainable energy in areas previously marginalized or with limited access to electricity
(Bazilian et al.,2021). Renewable projects, such as community wind farms or distributed
solar installations, can strengthen local infrastructure, improve quality of life, and create
economic opportunities for local communities. In addition, ownership participation in
renewable projects can generate additional income for communities and strengthen
social cohesion (Gomez et al.,2020).
Improving access to affordable and sustainable energy is key to combating energy poverty
and promoting social inclusion. Renewable energy offers a viable solution by providing a
clean and reliable energy source that is more accessible and affordable than traditional
fossil fuel-based options, especially in rural or remote areas(IRENA,2021). By reducing
energy costs and improving supply reliability, renewables can help improve the living
conditions of vulnerable communities and contribute to reducing energy inequality
(Bruni et al.,2020).
As such, the socioeconomic impact of renewable energies goes beyond the simple
generation of clean electricity. These technologies can catalyze economic development,
strengthen local communities and improve people's quality of life, especially in areas
where energy access is limited. By harnessing the potential of renewable energy to create
jobs, foster community development and reduce energy poverty, we can move toward
a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
CONCLUSIONS
In conclusion, this study provided a comprehensive overview of the role of renewable
energy in the transition to a sustainable energy model, highlighting its benefits, challenges
and opportunities. Renewable energy is emerging as a key solution to address the urgent
challenge of climate change, improve energy security and promote socioeconomic
development worldwide.
Through studies, renewable energy has been shown to have many important benefits,
including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, diversifying the energy mix, and ensuring a
long-term sustainable energy supply. However, significant challenges were also identified,
such as the space and variability of renewable resources, high upfront costs, and the
need for improved infrastructure and equipment.
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Despite these challenges, many opportunities for renewable energy expansion have been
identified, including technological advances in energy storage and grid management, good
policies and regulations, and innovations in the securities market. The socioeconomic
impacts of renewable energy were also highlighted, including job creation, community
development and poverty reduction.
Ultimately, this research highlights the importance of harnessing the power of renewable
energy and addressing current challenges to move toward a more secure and sustainable
future. By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines technological progress,
effective policies and international cooperation, we can accelerate the transition to more
sustainable energy models and promote well-being and justice for future generations.
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