Geographical factors and availability of resources play a crucial role in determining the suitability and effectiveness of specific renewable energy sources. Here are some examples:
1. Solar energy: Solar energy requires access to abundant sunlight. Therefore, areas with high average solar radiation and minimal cloud cover are considered ideal for solar power generation. Places closer to the equator or those with less air pollution tend to have better solar potential. In terms of resources, solar energy primarily relies on solar panels made of silicon, which is extracted from silica-rich deposits found in various regions worldwide.
- The Atacama Desert in Chile is one of the best places on Earth for solar energy due to its exceptional conditions[1].
- Other top locations include Bolivia, Namibia, Jordan, and Egypt, which have high solar irradiance, limited cloud cover, and suitable land conditions[1].
2. Wind energy: Wind energy requires consistent wind patterns at sufficient speeds. Hence, regions with high average wind speeds, such as coastal areas, ridges, and open plains, are well-suited for wind power generation. Factors like topography, surface roughness, and proximity to water bodies influence wind resource availability. The resources needed for wind energy include turbines made of steel, concrete, and fiberglass, which are widely available materials.
- The southern tip of Argentina has some of the best conditions for wind energy globally, with high wind speeds in sparsely populated regions[1].
- Other top locations include:
– China: Has the world’s largest installed wind capacity, including the largest onshore wind farm[1]
– United Kingdom: Home to the world’s largest offshore wind farms[1]
– United States: Has significant onshore and offshore wind potential[1]
3. Hydroelectric power: Hydroelectric power depends on the availability of flowing water and elevation differences. Areas with high annual rainfall, rivers, and large reservoirs offer hydroelectric potential. The construction of large dams is often needed to harness the energy. Therefore, geographical features like mountainous regions with suitable topography are advantageous for hydroelectric power generation.
- Norway generates up to 99% of its electricity from hydropower due to its high rainfall and suitable geography[1].
- Other top hydropower locations include Brazil, Canada, and China.
4. Geothermal energy: Geothermal energy relies on the earth’s natural heat from deep beneath the surface. It is most viable in areas with significant geothermal activity, such as regions with active volcanoes, hot springs, or tectonic plate boundaries. Resources required for geothermal energy include underground reservoirs of hot water or steam, which can be extracted through drilling and piping systems.
- Iceland is a global leader, generating 25% of its electricity and 66% of its primary energy from geothermal sources[1].
- Other top geothermal locations include areas along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” like Indonesia, Philippines, and parts of the western United States.
5. Biomass energy: Biomass energy utilizes organic materials like agricultural waste, wood, or dedicated energy crops. It is widely available, as biomass resources can be found in various geographical regions. However, the quantity and type of biomass resources vary depending on factors such as land availability, climate conditions, and agricultural practices. Countries with large agricultural sectors and forestry industries tend to have the most biomass potential.
- Top regions include Brazil, the United States, and parts of Southeast Asia.
6. Tidal and wave energy: Tidal and wave energy depend on the availability and strength of ocean tides and waves. Areas with large tidal ranges or consistent wave patterns, such as coastal regions, islands, or areas with significant marine activity, are suitable for tidal and wave power generation. Resources for these types of energy sources include specialized turbines and structures designed to harness the energy from tides and waves.
Overall renewable energy leaders
Several countries stand out for their high overall renewable energy usage across multiple sources:
Uruguay: Generates over 97% of its electricity from renewable sources, primarily hydropower, wind, solar, and biofuels[2][5]
Iceland: Nearly 100% of electricity comes from hydropower and geothermal[3]
Costa Rica: Produces over 98% of electricity from hydro, geothermal, solar and wind[2]
Denmark: 67% of electricity supply from renewables in 2021, with wind energy contributing 46.8%[2]
Germany: 45.3% of electricity consumption from renewables as of 2020[2]
These countries demonstrate how different geographical advantages and policy approaches can lead to high renewable energy adoption using various resource mixes suited to local conditions.
It is essential to consider these geographical factors and resource availability to determine the most appropriate renewable energy sources for a specific location. Additionally, factors like infrastructure, transmission capabilities, and local regulations and policies also play vital roles in the successful implementation of renewable energy projects.
More Reading
[1] https://ratedpower.com/blog/location-renewable-technology/
[2] https://sustainabilitymag.com/net-zero/top-10-nations-that-are-leading-the-renewable-energy-charge-countries-emissions
[3] https://www.climatecouncil.org.au/11-countries-leading-the-charge-on-renewable-energy/
[4] https://www.iea.org/regions/north-america/renewables
[5] https://www.wri.org/insights/countries-scaling-renewable-energy-fastest