Social, environmental, and economic consequences of integrating renewable energies in the electricity sector: a review

Abstract The global shift from a fossil fuel-based to an electrical-based society is commonly viewed as an ecological improvement. However, the electrical power industry is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions, and incorporating renewable energy can still negatively impact the environment. Despite rising research in renewable energy, the impact of renewable energy consumption on the environment is poorly known. Here, we review the integration of renewable energies into the electricity sector from social, environmental, and economic perspectives. We found that implementing solar photovoltaic, battery storage, wind, hydropower, and bioenergy can provide 504,000 jobs in 2030 and 4.18 million jobs in 2050.…

• DF
  Department for the Economy

  Award: VA5048
• EC
  European Commission
• BC
  Bryden Centre, Queen's University Belfast

  Award: VA5048