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Being one of the most prosperous regions in the world, several European nations have been endeavored to develop alternative energy for a better future. Germany and UK are two of the leaders which have increased their renewable resources up to 28.5% and 14.9% respectively.
In the first six months of 2014, Germany reached a milestone of generating 28.5% of its energy from clean resources. According to a report released by the energy trade association, BDEW, wind generation in Germany increased 21.4% while solar grew by 27.3% during the same period. Germany’s rapid transition to alternative energy is usually interpreted into a drawdown of nuclear power led by Japan’s Fukushima disaster.
Similarly, UK’s renewable generation increased from 11.3% in 2012 to 14.9% in 2013, representing a 30% growth. The Department of Energy and Climate Change’s (DECC) report says that solar PV and solar heat contributed 3.3% of the total renewable energy mix across all sectors including electricity, heat and transport. Wind and hydropower are also key contributors to the higher renewable generation.
Ed Davey, secretary of state for energy and climate change, said in a Solar Power Portal’s report: “This massive investment in green energy is accelerating, with 2013 a record year, with almost £8 billion invested across range of renewable technologies.” He added that the renewable sector helps UK to reduce its reliance upon foreign imports of energy and to improve the energy security. Of course, it helps the nation to tackle climate change and create green jobs as well.
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