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How have energy policies shifted in response to recent social and political changes?

Jaycie Laird

Energy policies have undergone several shifts in response to the recent social and political changes. An energy policy is a government regulation that directs the country's energy production and usage. The need for energy to run daily life has made it a key issue in our society. Governments, business communities, and individuals face the challenges of energy management, and it has become increasingly clear that development and growth have a considerable impact on the environment.

One of the most significant changes in energy policies is the shift towards renewable energy sources. The increasing concern for climate change has made governments recognize the need to transition to cleaner energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. This change towards renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower sources, is evident in countries such as Germany, which aims to have about 80% of its electricity sourced from renewable sources by 2050.

Another change is the shift towards using natural gas as a cleaner substitute for oil and coal. Natural gas is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel that emits less carbon dioxide than oil and coal. The availability of natural gas in many regions and its relatively low cost has made it an attractive choice for many governments, industries, and households. The United States, for instance, has seen a significant increase in natural gas usage in recent years as a substitute for oil and coal.

In summary, the current energy policies are shifting towards cleaner, renewable energy sources and the substitution of oil and coal with natural gas. These shifts have been instigated primarily due to increasing concerns for the environment, including climate change and air pollution, as well as the recognition of the finite nature of fossil fuels. However, these shifts also present uncertainties regarding decision-making, reducing costs, and ensuring reliability in energy supply and demand.

What are the challenges of shifting to renewable energy sources in developing countries?
How can governments encourage individuals and industries to adopt cleaner energy policies?
What role do international organizations play in guiding and directing energy policies across countries?