The IELTS Reading section tests candidates’ ability to understand and interpret complex texts. One of the popular topics that may appear in the IELTS Reading exam is the impact of renewable energy adoption on economic policies globally. Renewable energy is increasingly becoming a critical aspect of discussions related to economic growth, environmental sustainability, and policy transformation.
Given the contemporary relevance and the increasing frequency of discussions around renewable energy, it’s likely that this topic could appear in future IELTS exams. Understanding how renewable energy affects economic policies can help equip candidates with vital knowledge that could be useful in the Reading section.
Practice Reading Passage
Title: The Economic Impact of Renewable Energy Adoption
The global shift towards renewable energy is shaping economic policies around the world. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, are gaining traction as viable alternatives to fossil fuels. This transition is not only driven by environmental concerns but also by the economic benefits that renewable energy can bring.
Firstly, renewable energy projects create numerous employment opportunities. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IREA), the renewable energy sector employed over 11 million people worldwide as of 2018. This figure is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. Jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of renewable energy systems are on the rise, offering more stable employment compared to the fossil fuel industry.
Renewable Energy Jobs
Secondly, the adoption of renewable energy can reduce a country’s dependency on imported fuels. Many countries that lack domestic fossil fuel reserves spend a substantial portion of their GDP on importing oil, coal, and natural gas. By investing in renewable energy, these countries can reduce their trade deficits and redirect resources towards other essential areas like healthcare and education.
Moreover, renewable energy can stabilize and lower energy prices over the long term. Fossil fuel prices are notoriously volatile and subject to geopolitical tensions and market fluctuations. In contrast, the costs for renewable energy technologies have consistently decreased. The upfront investment in renewable infrastructure eventually leads to lower operational costs, providing more predictable and affordable energy prices for consumers and businesses.
Lastly, the environmental benefits of renewable energy adoption translate into economic advantages. Reduced air pollution and lower greenhouse gas emissions lead to better public health outcomes and decrease healthcare costs. Furthermore, combating climate change through renewable energy policies can prevent the economic damages associated with extreme weather events and environmental degradation.
Practice Questions
1. Multiple Choice
-
According to the passage, which of the following is NOT a benefit of adopting renewable energy?
a) Creation of employment opportunities
b) Reduction in dependency on imported fuels
c) Increase in fossil fuel consumption
d) Stabilization and reduction of energy prices -
How many people were employed in the renewable energy sector worldwide as of 2018, according to the IREA?
a) 5 million
b) 7 million
c) 11 million
d) 13 million
2. True/False/Not Given
- Renewable energy adoption leads to an increase in healthcare costs. ( )
- The renewable energy sector is expected to shrink in the coming years. ( )
- The costs for renewable energy technologies have increased over time. ( )
3. Matching Information
Match the following outcomes with their corresponding causes from the passage:
- Outcome: Employment opportunities
- Cause: Renewable energy projects
- Outcome: Reduction in trade deficits
- Cause: Investment in renewable energy
- Outcome: Lower operational energy costs
- Cause: Investment in renewable infrastructure
Answer Keys
Multiple Choice Answers:
- c) Increase in fossil fuel consumption
- c) 11 million
True/False/Not Given Answers:
- False
- Not Given
- False
Matching Information Answers:
- Employment opportunities ⟶ Renewable energy projects
- Reduction in trade deficits ⟶ Investment in renewable energy
- Lower operational energy costs ⟶ Investment in renewable infrastructure
Common Mistakes
Students often overlook the details surrounding employment numbers and economic benefits that are mentioned in the text. Ensure you read the passage thoroughly to avoid mistakes, especially in sections dealing with statistics and comparative data.
Vocabulary
- Viable (adjective) /ˈvaɪ.ə.bəl/: capable of working successfully
- Dependency (noun) /dɪˈpen.dən.si/: reliance on something or someone
- Trade deficit (noun) /treɪd ˈdɛf.ɪ.sɪt/: when a country’s imports exceed its exports
- Volatile (adjective) /ˈvɒl.ə.taɪl/: likely to change rapidly and unpredictably
Grammar Focus
Conditional Sentences
Conditional sentences are crucial in discussing potential outcomes. For instance:
- “If countries invest in renewable energy, they can reduce their dependency on imported fuels.”
Formula: If + Present Simple, will + base verb.
Conclusion & Tips
Preparation is key to excelling in the IELTS Reading section. Topics such as renewable energy and its economic impacts are not only relevant but have a good chance of appearing in future exams. Practice reading passages on such topics, expand your vocabulary, and pay attention to detail to improve your reading comprehension skills.
Always approach the reading passage strategically:
- Skim through the passage first to get a general idea.
- Highlight or note down key statistics and facts.
- Read the questions carefully and refer back to the text for answers.
With consistent practice and a focused approach, you are well on your way to achieving a high band score in the IELTS Reading section.
