Reflecting on IEA's Recent Renewable Analysis

According to the IEA, we’re on track to add more renewable capacity globally in that span of time than has been installed since the first commercial renewable energy power plant was built more than 100 years ago. And from a U.S. standpoint, progress has been made on all fronts, with double investments in renewables in the last year alone compared to the previous five.

This is not all to say the forecast is perfect. The report sidesteps one of the most critical aspects needed for a lasting energy transition: climate justice. It emphasizes the role of the consumer but falls short in outlining how governments must plan to actively engage with communities vulnerable to climate change. Communities most affected by climate change face increased socioeconomic disparities driven by limited natural resource allocation and lack of community engagement. Accelerating the implementation of renewable energy will mitigate climate risks, build the green economy, reduce pollution and provide affordable energy sources. For the energy transition to be successful, it must be a transformation for all.

This energy forecast gives us a glimpse of what our future could look like if we collectively leverage policy, technology, finance, and community expertise to meet our climate and energy goals. The future can be bright, but to be successful, governments, utility companies, and other stakeholders must listen to end-users to gauge the true impact of renewable energy. Rapidly increasing clean energy production hinges on the involvement and support of impacted communities. Forecasts will only be accurate if people are willing to do the hard work to make them a reality. It will take everyone pulling in the same direction to reach our goals.