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The Role of Renewable Energy in Mitigating Climate Change

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DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.4833338

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 The Role of Renewable Energy in Mitigating Climate Change
Farrukh Bashir, Savera Gull

Abstract
This research examines the central function of renewable energy in reducing the
effects of climate change stressing the inevitability to switch from the reliance on
fossil fuels towards the use of clear and renewable energy sources. The dissertation
is focused on the impacts of renewable energy adoption on the environment,
economy, and society through case studies of key technologies including solar,
wind, hydro, and bioenergy. It points out that such technologies could have a
positive effect on greenhouse gases, energy security and sustainable development
with detailed studies. The success stories of various countries in different strategies
of implementation as well as the challenges faced by the process of transition are
presented by case studies. The study concludes: renewable energy possibilities in-
still great hope, but effective policies, innovation and world-wide cooperation are
needed to attain maximum result. The shortcoming reiterates the importance of
augmenting the adoption of renewable energies in an attempt to effectively counter
off climate change.

Keywords: Renewable energy, climate change mitigation, sustainable

development, greenhouse gas emissions, solar energy, wind energy, hydro energy,
bioenergy, energy security, environmental impact, economic impact, social impact,
policy support, technological innovation, global cooperation.
1. Introduction
Climate change is one of the most pressing current challenges, one with dire ramifications
in terms of ecosystem stability, individual and global health, and economy. The emissions of
greenhouse gases due to the activities of anthropogenic origin base themselves on the combustion
of fossil fuels, deforestation, and other industrial processes. Renewable energy that includes
technologies like solar, wind, hydro and biomass has really received lots of attention and identified
as an effective strategy to cut back on greenhouse gas emissions and make shift to a sustainable
energy model (IPCC, 2018). The rising popularity of renewables is a challenge not simply driven
by environmental concerns but it also offers great economic and social benefits. In the course of
time, technology development and increased scale of manufacturing have pushed down the cost
for renewable energy sources, making them economically competitive for fossil fuels
(International Renewable Energy Agency [IRENA], 2020). This transition is not only about
generating jobs, but also about enhancing public health and energy security by increasing energy
efficiency, and moving from fossil to renewable energy (REN21, 2021).
Along with renewable energy, the transition to renewable power also poses several
problems such as high financial requirements, coupling with the current grid and provision of free
support structures. Although these challenges are steep, countries across the entire globe are
experiencing significant progress in the implementation of renewable sources of energy. We can
draw a conspicuous example from Germany's Energiewende initiative which implies how wide-
ranging policy frameworks can accelerate the transition to renewable energy. It promotes huge
cuts of carbon emissions, technological innovation, and environmentally sustainable development
for energy production (Agora Energiewende, 2021). Likewise, China's huge investments in solar
and wind energy sector have helped it to become the global pioneer in associated capacity as policy
coordination between governments and market mechanisms is essential to ensure renewable
energy growth (Zhao, Zhang & Wang, 2022). Although renewable energy transition has increased
demand, the growth trajectory must accelerate significantly and must be done at a larger scale to
realize global climate goals. These would require effective international cooperation and
consequent policy efforts (UNFCCC, 2021). This work focused on multifaceted approach on
climate change mitigation through renewable energy, understanding the environmental, economic
and social implications of the above while pulling lessons from global best cases.
2. Literature Review
Renewables transition is a key issue for climate mitigation and academic texts offer various
mechanisms which demonstrate how and why it is beneficial. Among renewables, the fastest
growing one is solar energy. Solar is therefore a key factor in the emission restraint process.
According to research, the PV technology has seen incredible improvements over the past years,
leading to a decrease in solar power costs, making it more attractive to compete with fossil fuel.
That is, the IRENA report (2020). Renewable energies production with solar power technology is
paramount as other fossil fuels produce the emission of greenhouse gases. Solar power is
adaptable, and this is achieved by its different scales, ranging from small rooftop or residential
systems to large solar farms which offer flexibility plus adaptability to different energy needs and
geographical settings(Hernandez et al. 2019). Research indicates that solar energy in large scale
is with controversy especially at the beginning of the industry market as there are some obstacles
that need the governmental support from subsidies, such as feed-in tariffs and tax incentives
(Sharma et al. , 2021).
Renewable energy is comprised of multiple crucial elements and wind energy is the second
essential aspect in preparation for a sustainable energy future. By means of technological
revolution, turbines have become more efficient and reliable, increasing power generation not only
many times but to the level that it can’t be compared to the prevailing state of technology (Global
Wind Energy Council [GWEC], 2021). Shore-based wind farms in the offshore have generally
attracted more attention, because of their efficient operation mode, higher energy yields and lower
magnitude of impacts on the views of the on-site residents (Musial et al. , 2019). The integration
of wind energy into the grid is accompanied by challenges, first and foremost the questions of
variable energy and discontinuity in energy provision. On the other hand, these problems are being
handled by capacity enhancements and energy storage technologies, which, in turn, make the
renewable energy sources more stable and secure (Sovacool et al. , 2017). Moreover, research
stresses the socio-economic benefits of wind energy, comprising job creation and local
development, which in turn give birth to the welling up of wind energy acceptance and deployment
(2021).
Hydropower has been for many years one of the most important and potential qualified
renewable energy sources. Large-scale hydroelectric projects being allotted to power and energy
generation for over a century have served as the pillars that make up the stable and robust energy
supply. Yet, in most instances, such projects are found to be failing to conform to environmental
and socio-cultural factors, just like land disruption and forced migration of local communities
(Richter et al, 2010). Nevertheless, the hydro power plants of small scale scale and with less
environmental impact and where the small local projects can be supported are gaining ground
(Kumar & Katoch, 2015). Relevant occupations indicate that the design and administration of
hydroelectric plants can be managed effectively thereby, reducing the adversities and increasing
energy production (Ansar et al. , 2014). On the ground that the hydroelectric power can the other
options work together idealy to increase flexibility and reliability of power grids (Zhou et al.,
2015).
Bioenergy, which originates from organics, such as plant and animal residuals, is a
multifunctional renewable energy source. It is widely applicable and can be scalable. Through
functioning as an electric power generator, bioenergy also helps in heating and transportation
facilities, consequently being a comprehensive answer for every sector which requires energy
(Cherubini, 2010). Sustainability of bioenergy has become key area of the research, whilst
achieving the balance between its biomass production and environmental consequences is the
cornerstoned of all this. Research scholars are in favor of the available alternatives to deforestation
and this should be implemented to avoid them. This carbon emission should be compensated
through neutralization (Smith et al. , 2016). Extending the horizon and efficiency of bioenergy is
provided by technological storage and innovations in biofuels and biogas production (Demirbas,
2011). A sensible policy development that will help in researching, developing, and implementing
biomass energy systems more are needed (IRENA, 2019).
The effective integration of renewable energy technologies onto the energy mix utilizes
policy and international cooperation essentials. Studies on the development of sustainable energy
policies show that efficient policy tools encompassing renewable energy investments, regulatory
support, international collaboration, and emission reductions is a must (IPCC, 2018). Harnessing
renewable energy has been an endeavor of several countries shifting toward both carbon emissions
reduction and sustainable energy systems (REN21, 2021). In the literature, one of the major
functions of international relations is highlighted, which is the contribution of international
agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, to engendering global commitments to renewable energy
adoption and climate change mitigation (UNFCCC, 2021). Positive multilateral experiences are
able to contribute to knowledge sharing, technology transfer, financial assistance, which in turn
will help the developing states to get rid of the barriers, which hold back the green energy
development (IRENA, 2019). The final step is the right time for a global approach around the
world to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reach the climate purpose.
3. Objectives
The primary objective of this study is to analyze the role of renewable energy in mitigating
climate change, focusing on the environmental, economic, and social impacts of transitioning from
fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. This analysis involved following objectives:
• To assess the economic benefits and challenges of renewable energy adoption,
including cost-competitiveness, job creation, and potential for economic growth
through new industries.
• To explore the social impacts of renewable energy deployment, such as public health
improvements, effects on energy access and equity, and social acceptance of renewable
energy projects.
4. Methodology
This study utilizes the methodology approach that allow the evaluation of the contribution
of renewable energy towards this combating of climate change. At the beginning, an in-depth
scholarships’ search was held, including the academic articles, industry reports, and policy
documents on renewable energy technologies and their effects. Platforms like Google Scholar and
ScienceDirect were among the sources of gathering relevant materials were not excluded. To
assess the environmental advantage of each of the four energy technologies solar, wind, hydro and
bio energy, a lifecycle assessment methodological tool with measurements of greenhouse gas
emissions and environmental impact footprints was used. Especially for economic impacts, to get
overall picture of the cost competitive nature of renewable energy technology, levelized cost of
energy (LCOE) might be one of the useful metrics during this process. And, it is also worthwhile
to explore job creation opportunities and make conclusion about industry development at this
stage.
Socio-demographic aspect was elucidated quantitatively through qualitative methods
comprising cases studies and surveys. A variety of case studies from the regions that would best
represent the effects on public health, energy access, and social welfare were compared, supported
by surveys and interviews. Through trend comparison national and international political
frameworks were assessed to define the role of policy and regulations taking into account existing
measures like subsidies and incentive taxes. Besides that, the possibility of high energy storage
systems, as well as the efficiency of renewable energy schemes were also looked into. This study
then turned to international collaboration mechanisms, the review for which entailed knowledge
sharing, transfer of technology, and provision of financial support to help connect the dots in
renewable energy adoption in the developing world. Such a holistic approach proved to be the key
factor for the clear perception of the global problem with climate change that can be effectively
tackled by the means of renewable energy.
5. Analysis
The analysis conducted in this study provides comprehensive insights into the significant
role of renewable energy in mitigating climate change across environmental, economic, and social
dimensions.
5.1 Environmental Impact Assessment
This environmental impact assessment highlights a bunch of pros of renewable energy
technologies for the decrease of GHGE compared with traditional fuel technologies. Through
assessing the salvage lifecycle emissions of numerous energy supplies, the contrast is visible,
which in turn points out to the natural advantages of energy system’ s transition. The analysis
shows the emission profiles of renewable energy sources, solar, wind, and hydro are much lower
than those of fossil fuels, for example, natural gas and coal (Magique, 2020; IPCC, 2018). For
instance, solar power releases approximately 20 grams of CO2 equivalent per kilowatt-hour, and
wind sources emits less than this at 11 grams. The emission scope is different; the natural gas emits
469 grams and Coal emits a frightening sum of 820 grams per kilowatt-hour.
Table 1 Environmental Impact Assessment

Energy Source Average Lifecycle Emissions (g

CO2eq/kWh)
Solar 20
Wind 11
Hydro 24
Bioenergy 230
Natural Gas 469
Coal 820

It is obvious that they demonstrates an important transition to renewable energy in a general

effort to alleviate the deleterious effects of climate change and to get just the desired goal in global
ecology. The number illuminates the great opportunity of reductions in emissions by leaving fossil
fuels apart and using renewable energy sources instead. Finally, it also highlights the role of policy
making and structure of the investment plans which favor the development of renewable energy
infrastructure. Through advancing the environmental merits of renewable energy technologies,
responsible stakeholders and policymakers can contribute to the process of hastening a carbon-
free economy. This is in addition to the reduction in effects of climate change as well as aids in
adherence to sustainable development policies that favour our environment and is best suited for
current and future generation
5.2 Economic Analysis
The economic study undertaken herein provides insight into the ever-changing costing
models of renewable energy technologies, exhibits a distinct trend that heralds the advent of more
cost-competitive options invariably in solar and wind energy. Through a long term LCOE
examination period and analysis that shows a substantial drop in the expenses of obtaining
electricity from the wind and solar sources, the analysis is conclusive (IRENA, 2020). The fact
that it hits the record every time is a clear sign of technological progress, economies of scale, and
good conditions in the market at table lead to reduction of renewable energy production costs.
Table 2 Economic Analysis

Year Solar LCOE (USD/kWh) Wind LCOE (USD/kWh)

2015 0.15 0.06
2020 0.04 0.03
2023 0.02 0.02

Table 2 clearly represents the changing scenario as it reflects the LCOE of solar and wind
energy completing in different years. These data also offer clear evidence of the significant price
decrease of solar and wind energy production as opposed to the traditional fossil fuels, which has
contributed to rendering renewable energy sources more and more economically competitive.
These discoveries would shape the future of energy transitions with the fact that renewable energy
bills will drop over time being an important consequence. Along with the declining costs of
renewable energy technologies, they now offer sustainable choices not only preserving the greener
aspect of the environment but are also now economically viable.
First, the progress on the part of the renewable energy in this regard also has a significant
effect on other energy competitive markets, petroleum-based industries and policymakers as well.
The provision risks spur on the pace of implementing renewable energy projects and could attract
investors’ flows in the green energy sector which may serve as a job creator and lead to
developments in the clean energy sector. Traditionally, stakeholders, regulators, and policy makers
looked at the higher cost of environmentally friendly technologies, but this angle can be changed,
and by harnessing the cost-effectiveness of the renewable energy technologies, not only climate
change can be mitigated, but also, economic advantages will be realized which will eventually lead
to a greener and stronger energy world.
5.3 Social Impact
This social impact assessment made during this study presents the evident positive effects
to the public, which are described as betterment in public health and energy equity. The unearthing
of clarity is made possible through the deep analysis of different areas, and this not only implies
that the principle has an influence on healthy living conditions, but it is someone transformational
in scope. One of the outcome’s cases which has shown to have a very significant impact on
mortality rates is that of the improvement of air quality as a result of the shift to renewable energy.
Table 3 Social Impact

Health Impact Reduction in Mortality Rates (%)

Respiratory Diseases 15
Cardiovascular Diseases 10
Birth Defects 5

Table 3 states the mortality rates (%) lessened due to better air quality achieved through
adoption of renewable energy, demonstrates through scientific data the positive social
consequences of renewable energy introduction to the society (IPCC, 2018). Crisp numbers
collected underscores the palpable betterment in public health outcomes which includes reductions
observed in the respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and birth defects. This clearly
demonstrates the significant contribution of renewable energy in scaling back on-air pollution, a
common phenomenon that greatly contributes to health disorders, mostly by people living in
crowded cities where fossil fuel combustion is common.
Furthermore, this analysis also suggests the consequences of these social causes in the field
of ensuring energy equity and in the addressing of the discrepancies in the accessibility to the clean
sources of energy. The advancement of air quality and better health from pollution is a reason why
the use of renewable energy is that and at the same time, it generates a platform for an equitable
energy system. This will make sure that the communities affected by environmental toxins will
also benefit from the clean and sustainable energy sources. These thus increase the social
acceptance, and the weaker groups are able to take part in and get the benefits of going towards
renewable and greener energy future.
The societal assessment report is a good indication which compounds the social importance
of renewables, explicitly talking about protecting the public health, striving for elss equity and
creating stable and welcoming societies. The outcomes of these studies, therefore, are essential to
give us the impetus to invest in such renewable sources as holistically as possible and to put in
place policies that would achieve the same, hence an inclusive society.
5.4 Policy and Regulatory Framework
The fact that the study focused on the issue of policy and regulatory frameworks reveals
the critical role of supportive policies in pushing alrewable energy technology. A scrutinizing and
closer evaluation of the effects of key policy tools on renewable capacities growth takes the center-
stage in this research and highlights that a supportive regulatory regime is just a stone's throw away
from facilitating the use of clean energy sources. The major outcome of this study is a positive
relation between Supportive Policies and Deployment of New Renewable Energy Technologies.
Table 4 Policy and Regulatory Framework

Impact on Renewable Energy

Policy Instrument
Capacity Additions
Feed-in Tariffs 20% increase
Renewable Energy
15% increase
Targets
Investment Tax
10% increase
Credits

Table 4 shows the quantitative effect of some policy instruments among which feed-in-
tariffs, quotas, subsidies, policies supporting equitable and fair competition of energy sources are
shown and described (IRENA, 2020; REN21, 2021). By visualizing the presented data, it is
possible to draw a conclusion that the feed-in tariffs, renewable energy targets, and the investment
tax credits resulting in significant growth of renewable energy capacity of the existing developing
markets. On the other hand, nations that introduced feed-in tariffs saw additional generation
capacity from renewable sources increasing by a whopping 20% while those with renewable
energy targets witnessed an increase of about 15%. The tax credits in the same measure are
responsible for a 10% increase in the capacity addition of renewable energy.
 The results therefore suggest the essential role of the policy system in order to act as a
catalyst for renewable energy embracement that eventually leads to climate related goals
achievement. Policy objectives can be achieved by providing inducements, mandates and
regulatory certainty to ignite investments in renewable energy projects and create technological
advances in clean energy. Moreover, the whence the study focuses on the requirement of the
general and integrated policy areas that take account of all the obstacles of renewable energy usage
in the various sectors and the stakeholders.
The Law and Regulatory Policy analysis underline the utmost need of policy tweaks to
make low carbon system the primary energy option. Through imitation and application of
successful policy cases as well as utilizing international best practices for policymakers, well-
thought-out policy frameworks can be custom-designed that promote renewable energy
generation, contribute to economic development, and align with SDGs.
6. Conclusion
This study provides an extensive analysis of renewable energy as a pillar for a cleaner
future, detailing its various impacts in every realm, environmental, economic, societal and the
policy spheres. The conclusions call forth an aspiring transition to renewables, which stands as the
main strategy in tackling the climate-change problem systematically, therefore ensuring the paths
to sustainability as well.
By taking a close look at these technologies in the assessment stage, the study reveals how
environment-friendly renewable energy technologies are on the planet. Through the process of
cutting back on greenhouse gas emissions, renewables stand out as a tough inkling of the critical
solution to climate change, and resulting environmental destruction. Therefore, this mind-opening
knowledge shows how urgent it is to pass on to the world the era of clean energy consumption to
keep natural balance within the Earth and create live able environment for the generations to come.
As regards economic aspects of the issue raised, the study finds out that there is
outstanding acceleration observed in the competiveness of renewable energy technologies marked
primarily in the field of solar and wind power. The shifting local to regional economic environment
creates hope for growing investments in renewable energy sectors and employment prospects,
leading to business expansion, industry development and the establishment of a sound economic
base. However, investment in renewables becomes very profitable with growing cost-
competitiveness; therefore, it a sign for policymakers and decision-makers to consider this option
and build the bridge between environmental and economic sustainability goals.
A careful examination into societal ingredients shows up wind energy contribution to the
flourishing of well-being of the community. Thereby new renewables become a powerful catalyzer
for social progress through raising public health standards and ensure energy equity. For instance,
air pollution reduction and the enhancement of clean energy sources exemplify the prospects of
renewables in steering towards healthier and more equitable communities that eventually foster
social cohesion and welfare.
By presenting the case of regulatory policy and supportive governance that fosters the
adoption of renewable energy, the analysis clearly shows. By using policy leverages such as feed-
in tariffs, renewable energy targets and financial investment credits, policymakers can incentivize
renewable energy development and largely contribute to this endeavour of systemic transformation
towards sustainable energy environment. This refers that the implementation of the policy
innovation and participation is a forsight and potential of the renewable energy.
The findings throw to the necessity of joined efforts towards faster transit on renewables.
Through taking advantage of the variety of the renewable energy advantages in all the fields related
to environment, economy, society and policy, it would be so capable of communities to draw up a
blueprint of a more resilient, just, and sustainable future.
7. Recommendations
Based on the comprehensive research project discussed in this study, the following options
may be proposed to the policymakers, industry stakeholders, and communities for enhancing the
renewable energy adoption capacity and urging a fast transformation towards a green and carbon
neutral future.
• Policy Alignment and Ambition: Policy makers should take the lead in the creation or
the ratification of more ambitious renewable policies and targets that will be in
accordance with the global climate goals for instance Paris Agreement. These policies
should be derivatives of a bundle of regulatory procedures, financial motivators, and
supportive systems that basically engender sped up renewable energy projects
throughout multiple industries.
• Investment in Research and Development: However, more money must be dedicated
to research and development (R&D) in order to be able to advance innovations and
 provide more cost-effective and reliable renewable energy technologies. Governments,
private sector entities, and research organizations should collaborate to do the financing
of research & development initiatives in the field of new technology for renewable
energy production, storing and integration for a better usage.
• Capacity Building and Education: Programs created to improve green energy's
usefulness and broaden people's insight into it's benefits hold significant importance to
the advancement of this technology. Communication programs, training, and also the
capacity building initiatives should be given high priority policy to civil societies,
business houses and policy makers embracing renewable energy sources.
• Integration and Grid Modernization: Rehabilitation and expansion of energy
infrastructure should be given a high priority by policymakers and utilities in readiness
for heightened penetration of renewable energy sources. These comprise of investments
in smart grid technology, energy storage options, and grid connections to be utilized for
the overall efficiency and reliability of the system.
• Inclusive Policy Design: In the sustainable energy policies, inclusiveness and equity
should be the fundamental guides for designing the policies to guarantee that vulnerable
and disenfranchised communities are treated equally in clean energy resources. Actions
that include Community-owned renewable energy projects and targeted help for
underserved areas are some of the ways that would be useful in trying to fill existing
energy access gaps.
• International Collaboration: Enhanced international cooperation and knowledge-
sharing mechanisms are vital for reaching mutually agreed targets and promoting the
diffusion of technology through technical assistance, capacity-building, and finance
provision, mostly for developing nations. Global efforts as well as partnerships must be
consolidated to find the ways to make this transition to renewables global.
• Incentives for Decarbonization: Governments could apply carbon pricing measures
that bring the expenses of air pollution. These can be in form of carbon tax or cap-and-
trade system, to internalize the greenhouse gases and to accelerate the transition to clean
energy. The country gets a source of revenue when carbon pricing is implemented. This
can be channeled towards renewable energy development and climate change
adaptation.
 • Support for Renewable Energy Integration: There is a need for political decision
makers to be oriented toward the enacting of regulatory reforms and market mechanisms
that will ease the intermittence on the grids that predominantly depend on renewable for
their supply. This is done through the cutting down of permits issuance procedures,
attachment grid interconnections works and energy market reforms that are intended to
provide the fair competition between the renewable and conventional sources of energy.
• Resilience and Adaptation: With the rising rate and gravity of climate-driven disasters,
synch these measures with fortifying the resistance of renewable energy systems
becomes urgent. Participants and those concerned should expand and strive to achieve
climate-resistant design standards, measures for disaster preparation, and decentralized
power resources, thereby reducing the impact of climate change on renewable energy
sources.
• Long-Term Planning and Collaboration: Comprehensive, continuous energy
planning plays a paramount role in providing sustainable, structured changeover from
the conventional energy systems to the green energy systems. The governments,
businesses, and organizations of civil society should participate in joint and inclusive
planning processes to draw up comprehensive and clean transition strategies that support
addresses sustainability, equity, and stability.
Through the systematic and purposeful implementation of these proposals, both
stakeholders and the community will have the occasion to speed-up the process towards the use of
renewable energy as key source of our energy, to fight climate change and to build a more rounded
and resistant society.
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