Handbook of Energy Transitions: Renewable Energy Systems

The energy transition is a pathway toward transformation of the global energy sector from fossil-based to zero-carbon by the second half of this century. At its heart is the need to reduce energy-related CO2 emissions to limit climate change. Decarbonization of the energy sector requires urgent action on a global scale, and while a global energy transition is underway, further action is needed to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. Renewable energy and energy efficiency measures can potentially achieve 90% of the required carbon reductions. This chapter bridges the gap between the development of the renewable energy system and their transition toward zero-carbon. The transition and market trends of the renewable energy systems including solar, wind, geothermal, and bioenergy will be discussed and compared with existing energy policies at the global level. The chapter will highlight the major barrier and challenges faced by the renewable energy resources toward zero-emission.