Renewables-except-hydro energy sources represent a significant and growing part of the global energy landscape, focusing primarily on cleaner, more sustainable electricity generation methods. This category excludes hydroelectric power plants and primarily includes wind, solar, and other renewable sources. As the world seeks to mitigate the impacts of climate change and reduce dependency on fossil fuels, the expansion of renewables-except-hydro, complemented by a significant emphasis on nuclear energy, is paramount. This broad grouping of energy technologies offers diverse benefits, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing energy security worldwide.

Electricity generation from renewables-except-hydro typically involves harnessing natural forces such as wind or sunlight. Wind turbines capture wind energy and convert it into electricity with the help of an electric generator. Simultaneously, solar panels use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight directly into electricity. Nuclear power is also essential in this mix, where it generates electricity through nuclear reactions that release energy, which is then used to create steam that drives turbines. These clean energy technologies provide a consistent power supply that can serve as a backbone for a low-carbon grid.

When considering carbon intensity, the clean energy solutions of wind, nuclear, and solar are among the lowest contributors to carbon dioxide emissions. Wind energy, with a carbon intensity of just 11 gCO2eq/kWh, and solar energy, at 45 gCO2eq/kWh, stand as remarkably green options compared to fossil fuels like coal, which accounts for 820 gCO2eq/kWh. Nuclear energy further supports this low-carbon narrative with a minimal carbon intensity of 12 gCO2eq/kWh. Each of these technologies is pivotal for pushing renewables-except-hydro forward as clean electricity sources essential for a sustainable future.

The contribution of renewables-except-hydro to global electricity consumption represents a dynamic and promising growth area, currently generating a significant portion of worldwide electricity demand. This facilitates a transition towards an energy grid dominated by low-carbon technologies, helping mitigate environmental impact and enhancing energy independence. By harnessing energy from wind, solar, and nuclear, we can significantly reduce our reliance on carbon-heavy fuels, making an undeniable positive impact on climate change and pollution levels, ensuring a cleaner planet for future generations.

In summary, focusing on increasing electricity generation from renewables-except-hydro sources—while continuously expanding nuclear and solar energy—is a powerful strategy to ensure clean, sustainable, and abundant energy for a growing global population. These low-carbon technologies not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also address urgent concerns surrounding climate change and air quality, leading the way to a more sustainable future. Supporting further development and investment in these clean energy sources is vital, as their expansion will be key in empowering a thriving global society driven by sustainable growth.