Duolingo / PTE / IELTS writing task 2 – Outweigh essay

Analyze the pros and cons of renewable energy sources. Do the benefits of these sources outweigh the drawbacks?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre:

The utilization of renewable energy sources offers numerous advantages and disadvantages. However, upon careful analysis, it becomes clear that the benefits of renewable energy sources significantly outweigh the drawbacks.

First and foremost, renewable energy sources are environmentally friendly. They produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions, making them crucial in the fight against climate change. Solar and wind energy, for example, are inexhaustible, ensuring a sustainable energy supply that mitigates resource depletion and reduces reliance on geopolitically unstable regions for energy sources.

Secondly, renewable energy technologies foster innovation and job creation. The renewable energy sector drives economic growth, with new employment opportunities emerging in fields like solar panel installation and wind turbine maintenance. It represents a significant driver of economic development and positions countries to lead in the emerging green energy industry.

Thirdly, renewable energy sources offer energy security. Unlike fossil fuels, which can be subject to supply disruptions, renewables like wind and solar energy are domestically sourced and can reduce a nation’s dependence on foreign energy sources, enhancing energy independence.

On the other hand, renewable energy sources are not without drawbacks. One significant concern is their intermittent nature. Solar and wind power generation depend on sunlight and wind speed, which can vary throughout the day and between locations. This intermittency necessitates energy storage systems or backup sources to ensure a stable energy supply. Additionally, the installation and maintenance of renewable energy infrastructure can be expensive. While the long-term operational costs are generally lower than fossil fuels, the initial investment can be a barrier to adoption, raising questions about affordability.

In conclusion, the advantages of renewable energy sources are crucial for addressing environmental challenges and securing a sustainable energy future. Their capacity to reduce carbon emissions, foster economic growth, and provide energy security is evident. While the intermittent nature of solar and wind power and their initial costs remain significant challenges, continued development of renewable energy technologies and supportive policies will be instrumental in maximizing their benefits while minimizing their drawbacks. Renewable energy sources are undeniably a critical component of the future of energy production.