Problems and Risks of Renewable Energy Sources

Abstract

The article analyzes the problems and risks of new-fangled renewable energy sources in the 21^st century, which can radically change the energy picture of the world and to a certain extent reduce the risk of climate change. However, energy generation from wind is usually available 25—35% of the time, from the sun — 10—25%.
Renewable energy sources (RES) face the problem of accumulating or supporting capacities that should replace the unstable generation of RES at the time of inevitable failures. RES cannot exist without excess reserve capacities on traditional energy carriers that can quickly increase and reduce electricity production. Abandoning hydrocarbons in the next 30—50 years looks unrealistic if countries want to maintain their competitiveness. The growth of the share of RES in the global energy balance is an extremely politicized phenomenon.
The development of renewable generation creates risks for consumers. Especially for large ones. One of these risks is associated with the intermittent, unstable nature of renewable generation, which in recent years has been understood mainly as solar and wind power plants. In addition, to produce more solar panels, wind turbines and batteries for electric vehicles, humanity will need more specific resources — rare earth metals. The production of these metals is unsafe for the environment. It involves the consumption of a huge amount of water and electrical energy.
Renewable energy sources may dominate, but it will take centuries. Demand is already growing, but fossil fuels will live long enough.