Monday marked the beginning of a new era. The first international consortium of countries focused on finding renewable, sustainable energy options, IRENA, was formed in Bonn, Germany. Much like the world-renowned CERN, this organization aims to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our global society. The International Renewable Energy Agency has the stated goal of a “rapid transition towards the widespread and sustainable use of renewable energy on a global scale.” To achieve these objectives, the necessary funding must be made available for their work. In order for renewable energy options to compete with the current, relatively inexpensive supply of energy, economies of scale must be reached. The work ahead of IRENA will help determine the long-term viability of these options.

IRENA’s website states that they advocate development of all renewable energy sources. In the United States, the notion of a single dominant source of energy has long prevailed. Starting at the infancy of the nation, wood ruled as the primary energy source until the mid-to-late 19th century. Soon coal surpassed the usage of wood, reaching the 80% threshold of energy consumption, which remained the most common source until oil and natural gas gained supremacy in the mid-20th century. No longer can the world depend on a singular, predominant source of energy. In order for renewables to supplant fossil fuels, and more broadly nonrenewable sources, we must rely on a diverse portfolio. During peak load hours, solar energy can provide the supplemental energy necessary, whereas wind offers the greatest potential during the nighttime. In conjunction with a smarter grid and myriad other energies, we must enact conservation and efficiency measures as well. Without the reduction in consumption, these energy breakthroughs will have minimal impacts.

2nd Green Revolution