MOUNTAINS OF THE MOON UNIVERSITY

FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE AND ENIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

BACHELOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
INDIVIDUAL COURSEWORK

NAME: TULINAYO ABLE

REGISTRATION NUMBER: 2023/U/MMU/BES/01092
COURSE NAME: RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCTION
COURSE CODE: BES 2202
YEAR OF STUDY: YEAR TWO
SEMESTER: TWO

QUESTION
Explain the impact of renewable energy on:
I) Society
II) Economy
III) Environment
INTRODUCTION
Renewable energy (RE) refers to energy derived from natural sources such as solar, geophysical,
or biological processes, which are replenished at a rate that meets or exceeds their rate of
consumption. It comes from continuous or repetitive energy flows in the environment, including
biomass, solar power, geothermal heat, hydropower, tidal and wave energy, ocean thermal
energy, and wind power. However, certain renewable resources like biomass can be used faster
than they can regenerate, or geothermal heat can be extracted more rapidly than it can be
naturally replenished. In contrast, solar energy's rate of utilization does not impact how quickly it
reaches the Earth. Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, do not qualify as renewable
energy since they are not replenished within a time frame short enough relative to their
consumption rate Haas et al., 2008.
Renewable energy is going to be an important source for power generation in the near future,
because we can use these resources again and again to produce useful energy. The energy
resources are normally classified as fossil resources, renewable, and nuclear energy resources.
Different renewable energy resources, like hydropower, wind, solar, biomass, ocean energy,
biofuel, geothermal, etc., provide 15–20% of the total world’s energy Kumar et al., 2020. The
world is going to turn into a global village due to more requirement of energy due to fast
growing population, which leads to the use the fossil fuels like coal, gas, and oil to fulfill the
energy requirement, which creates unsustainable situations and many problems like depletion of
fossil fuels, environmental and geographical conflicts, greenhouse effect, global warming, and
fluctuation in fuel prices. Due to environment-friendly and less emission of gases from
renewable energy, it is considered as sustainable energy; also supported for the society from each
dimensions like economic, social and environmental. “Approximately 1.6 billion people have no
access to electricity and about 1.1 billion are without water supply”. Renewable energy resources
have an ability to complete the world’s energy demand, protect the environment, and provide
energy security. Along with the outstanding advantages of these resources, some shortcomings
also exist like the variation of output due to seasonal change, which is the common thing for
wind and hydroelectric power plant; hence, special design and consideration are required, which
are fulfilled by the hardware and software due to the improvement in computer technology. The
main renewable energy sources with their usage in different form are classified in Table 1, and it
is expected that renewable energy will be one of the important sources for the future; the world’s
renewable energy sources scenario by 2040 is estimated as given in Table 2.
Energy resource Energy conversion and usage option
Hydropower Power generation
Biomass Heat and power generation, pyrolysis,
gasification, digestion
Geothermal Urban heating, power generation,
hydrothermal, hot rock
Solar Solar home system, solar dryers, solar
cookers
Direct solar Photovoltaic, thermal power generation, water
heaters
Wind Power generation, wind generators, windmills
Wave Numerous designs
Table 1: Main renewable energy sources with their usage form

2001 2010 2020 2030 2040

Total 10,038 10,549 11,425 12,352 13,310
consumption
(million tons
equivalent)
Biomass 1080 1313 1791 2483 3271
Large hydro 22.7 266 309 341 358
Geothermal 43.7 86 186 333 493
Small hydro 9.5 19 49 106 189
Wind 4.7 44 266 542 688
Solar thermal 4.1 15 66 244 480
Photovoltaic 0.1 2 24 221 784
Solar thermal 0.1 0.4 3 16 68
electricity
Marine 0.05 0.1 0.4 3 20
 (tidal/wave/ocean)
Total RES 1365,5 1745,5 2964,4 4289 6351
Renewable 13.6 16.6 23.6 34.7 47.7
energy
contribution
source (%)
Table 2: Global renewable energy scenario by 2040
Impacts of renewable energy resources
TO THE SOCIETY:
These resources also provide social benefits like improvement of health, according to choice of
consumer, advancement in technologies, and opportunities for the work, but some basic
considerations should be taken for the benefit of humans, for example, climate conditions, level
of education and standard of living, and region whether urban or rural from agricultural point of
view. Social aspects are the basic considerations for the development of any country. The
following social benefits can be achieved by renewable energy systems: local employment,
better health, job opportunities, and consumer choice. The study concluded that the total
emission reduction is exponentially increasing in different years after the installation of
renewable energy projects in remote areas. Social impacts of each resource with its magnitude
are listed in Table 3.
Technology Impact Magnitude
Photovoltaic Toxins Minor-Major
Visual Minor
Wind Bird strike Minor
Noise Minor
Visual Minor
Hydro Displacement Minor-Major
Agricultural Minor-Major
River damage Minor-Major
Geothermal Seismic activity Minor
Odor Minor
Pollution Minor-Major
 Noise Minor
Table 3: Social impacts assessment for different renewable energy sources
Detractors of renewable energy fear job losses will follow a switch to a more renewable grid.
However, in reality, the rise of renewables will create new job opportunities and provide
potentially exciting careers for thousands of people.
Examples of careers in renewable energy include:
 Solar Photovoltaic Installer: Qualified installers are needed to supply and fit the world’s
solar panels. This job is crucial, as proper installation ensures that the panels are as effective
as possible. BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) data reports that U.S. installers earn a salary of
$45,230 per year and will experience a 22% jump in demand through 2032.
 Wind Turbine Technician: Wind power has been on the rise in recent years. This has fueled
the demand for technicians who can install, repair, and perform routine maintenance on the
mechanical components of the tower.
 Electrical Engineer: Electrical engineers are responsible for a wide range of tasks related to
renewables, the grid, and home energy devices. They also earn an average of $103,320 and
are in demand currently.
 Data Scientist: The renewable energy grid relies on accurate data collection and analysis.
Data scientists are, therefore, integral to the smooth functioning of renewable energy systems.
These data scientists will be in even higher demand in the future as nations continue to
commit to renewable energy sources.
Fossil fuel-based energy sources, including coal, oil, and natural gas, are major contributors to air
pollution, which poses severe health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations. The combustion
of these fuels releases harmful pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen oxides
(NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO), all of which have detrimental effects on
both respiratory and cardiovascular health. For example, long-term exposure to PM2.5 is linked
to chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),
and pneumonia, which not only strain healthcare systems but also reduce the productivity of those
affected. Additionally, air pollution is associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes,
and hypertension, leading to premature deaths and higher medical costs (Muller et al., 2021).
Indoor air pollution, particularly from the burning of biomass for cooking and heating in
developing countries, further exacerbates health issues, with women and children being especially
vulnerable. This leads to acute respiratory infections and long-term respiratory diseases. Exposure
to other harmful pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde also raises the risk of lung cancer.
In light of these health concerns, the shift toward renewable energy sources such as solar, wind,
and hydropower offers a significant reduction in harmful emissions. Solar and wind energy, for
instance, generate electricity without releasing air pollutants, thereby reducing the burden of
respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, the adoption of cleaner cooking technologies,
like biogas and improved cook stoves, can drastically decrease indoor air pollution, offering
substantial health benefits, particularly in high-risk areas. By improving public health outcomes,
lowering medical costs, and boosting productivity, transitioning to renewable energy not only
improves the quality of life but also supports economic stability and helps reduce poverty,
especially in low-income communities.
TO THE ECONOMY:
Utilization of Local Labor, Materials, and Businesses: One of the key economic benefits of
renewable energy projects is their ability to stimulate local economies, particularly in rural areas.
These projects often rely on local labor, local businesses, and locally sourced materials, which
helps create jobs and support regional economies. For example, in rural regions where
employment opportunities are typically limited, the construction, operation, and maintenance of
renewable energy facilities—such as wind farms or solar power plants—can provide significant
employment opportunities. Local suppliers of materials like steel, concrete, and electrical
components also benefit from these projects. Additionally, the integration of local businesses
into the supply chain helps diversify and strengthen the regional economy, ensuring that the
wealth generated by these projects stays within the community.
Creation of Trust Funds and Local Investment: Renewable energy projects can also enhance
local economic development by establishing trust funds that invest the earnings from electricity
sales back into the community. These trust funds are designed to invest in local businesses and
projects, providing communities with the capital to support small businesses and infrastructure
development. For example, in some regions, wind or solar farms have contributed a percentage
of their earnings to trust funds that support local schools, healthcare centers, or new small
business ventures. This allows communities to have greater control over how the revenue from
energy production is spent, which in turn promotes sustainable development and local economic
empowerment. It also encourages investment in local projects, which can create additional jobs
and opportunities for residents.
Low-Cost Electricity and Economic Enhancement: Another significant economic benefit of
renewable energy projects is the provision of low-cost electricity to consumers. As renewable
energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower become more widespread, the cost of electricity
generated from these sources has decreased. Unlike conventional energy sources, such as coal or
natural gas, the fuel for renewable energy is free—sunlight, wind, and water are natural
resources that don't require ongoing costs. This makes renewable energy particularly cost-
effective in the long term. For example, once solar panels are installed, the ongoing costs for
maintaining the system are relatively low, and electricity generated from solar power can be
much cheaper than from fossil fuels. This reduction in electricity costs benefits consumers,
particularly those in rural or low-income communities, by making energy more affordable and
accessible. Additionally, as more renewable energy options are available, regions can diversify
their energy mix, ensuring a more stable and resilient energy grid, which can boost economic
stability and attract new businesses.
Diversification of Power Generation and Regional Economic Growth: By integrating
multiple renewable energy sources—such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal—regions can
diversify their power generation mix, which helps enhance energy security and economic
growth. This diversification allows communities to rely on a combination of energy sources that
are suited to their local environment. For example, coastal regions might harness wind energy,
while sunny regions may invest heavily in solar power. This variety in energy generation options
provides greater flexibility in meeting local energy needs and reduces dependence on external
energy sources, making local economies more resilient to price fluctuations in global fossil fuel
markets. Moreover, as renewable energy becomes more widespread, it opens up new avenues for
innovation and job creation in sectors like energy storage, smart grid technology, and energy
efficiency, further boosting local economies and fostering sustainable development.
TO THE ENVIRONMENT:
The two main aspects of environment are air and water pollution, normally created by the
discharged water from houses, industries, and polluted rain, and discharge of used oils and
liquids contains poisonous chemicals and heavy metals like mercury, lead, etc. Along with water
pollution, natural resources can be maintained and greenhouse effect and air pollution can be
mitigated by the proper usage of renewable energy sources as shown in Table 4
Category of impact Relationship to Comment
conventional sources
Exposure to harmful
chemicals
Emission of Hg, Cd, and other Reduced emissions Emission reduced a few hundred
toxic elements times.
Emission of particles Reduced emissions Much less emission.
Exposure to harmful
gases
CO2 emission Reduced emissions A big advantage.
Acid rain, SO, NOx Reduced emissions Reduced more than 25 times.
Other greenhouse gases Reduced greenhouse gases Big advantage-global warming.
Other
Spouts off fossil fuels Total or partial Heavy fuel oil and other
elimination of oil spills petroleum product spills.
Water quality Better quality water Reduced water pollution.
Soil erosion Smaller loss of land In most cases, there is no
penetration deep into earth.
Table 4: Summary of environmental effects
Reduction of Carbon Dioxide Emissions and Climate Change Awareness: One of the most
significant environmental benefits of renewable energy projects is the reduction of carbon
dioxide (CO₂) emissions, which play a central role in global climate change. Unlike fossil fuels,
renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower produce little to no direct CO₂
emissions during energy production. This contributes to a decrease in the overall greenhouse gas
emissions that lead to global warming and climate change. For instance, wind energy alone has
helped to avoid millions of tons of CO₂ emissions annually, particularly in countries with large
wind farms, such as the United States and Germany. Furthermore, these projects help raise
awareness about climate change within communities. As renewable energy projects are often
community-led or involve local partnerships, they can become educational platforms for
discussing environmental issues, encouraging more sustainable behaviors, and fostering a sense
of environmental responsibility among local populations.
Minimal Impact on Local Communities, Tourism, and Energy Supply: While renewable
energy projects are generally seen as beneficial, studies have noted that their direct impact on
certain local factors, such as tourism and energy supply, can be relatively small. For example,
large wind farms or solar installations might not have a major effect on local tourism, especially
if they are located in less tourist-heavy regions or are integrated into the landscape in a way that
is not disruptive.
Impact on Air and Water Pollution: Renewable energy projects have a significant positive
impact on reducing air and water pollution, both of which are major environmental issues
associated with traditional energy production methods. Fossil fuel power plants release harmful
pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM),
which contribute to air pollution and smog formation. By shifting to renewable energy sources
like wind, solar, and hydropower, these harmful emissions are greatly reduced, leading to cleaner
air. Moreover, renewable energy technologies also help to reduce water pollution, a major
concern with traditional energy production. Fossil fuel plants require large amounts of water for
cooling, and this often leads to thermal pollution, where heated water is discharged into local
rivers or lakes, affecting aquatic life. In contrast, most renewable energy sources require minimal
water usage, particularly solar and wind energy, thus preserving local water resources and
reducing the negative impacts of thermal and chemical pollution on water bodies.
Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystems: The extraction of fossil fuels and the
environmental damage caused by traditional power plants can result in habitat destruction, soil
degradation, and harm to biodiversity. Fossil fuel extraction often leads to deforestation, land
degradation, and disruption of surrounding ecosystems. In contrast, renewable energy projects,
like wind and solar farms, generally have a smaller environmental impact and are less likely to
cause large-scale land destruction or harm to natural habitats. When appropriately managed,
renewable energy systems can coexist with local wildlife, as seen with solar power plants that
use "dual-use" land, allowing for both agriculture and energy production.
CONCLUSION
The conventional energy resources like oil, gas, and coal are very important for the improvement
in economics of a country. A country like Pakistan is fully dependent on the conventional energy
sources in spite of knowing its bad effects for health and environment like greenhouse effect,
global warming effect, etc. Pakistan is blessed with all the renewable energy sources like hydro,
wind, and geothermal, and for solar power generation also, it is a suitable country. But, the main
problems to generate power from renewable energy resources are funds and politics. All the
factors like emission of greenhouse gases, availability of resources, land requirements, water
consumption, social impacts, and price of power generated are taken into consideration for the
classification of renewable energy sources. Wind power generation is considered as lowest water
consumption, lowest relative greenhouse gas emission, and most favorable social impacts. It is
considered as one of the most sustainable renewable energy sources, followed by hydropower,
photovoltaic, and then geothermal. Biomass is considered suitable for the small-scale industries
because of saving of fuel in considerable amount. Local employment, better health, job
opportunities, job creation, consumer choice, improvement of life standard, social bonds
creation, income development, demographic impacts, social bonds creation, and community
development can be achieved by the proper usage of renewable energy system. Along with
benefits of renewable energy resources, these are complex to install and are local environmental
and conditions sensitive. Their forecasting, execution, and planning require more consideration
and knowledge as compared to other projects.
References
 Kumar, M. (2020). Social, economic, and environmental impacts of renewable energy
resources. Wind solar hybrid renewable energy system, 1.
 Müller, F., Neumann, M., Elsner, C., & Claar, S. (2021). Assessing African energy
transitions: renewable energy policies, energy justice, and SDG 7. Politics and
Governance, 9(1), 119-13.
 Haas, R., N. Nakicenovic, A. Ajanovic, T. Faber, L. Kranzl, A. Mueller, and G. Resch
(2008). Towards sustainability of energy systems: A primer on how to apply the concept
of energy services to identify necessary trends and policies. Energy Policy, 36(11), pp.
4012-4021.