The topic of renewable energy and its impact on economic development is increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and current global issues, this theme has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question that closely resembles actual IELTS prompts:
Some people believe that investing in renewable energy sources is crucial for economic growth, while others argue that it is too expensive and may hinder development. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that renewable energy investment promotes economic growth
- Explore the opposing view that it’s too costly and may impede development
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Renewable energy has become a focal point in discussions about sustainable economic development. While some argue that investing in clean energy sources is essential for long-term growth, others contend that the high costs involved could potentially hamper economic progress. In my opinion, despite initial expenses, renewable energy investment is crucial for sustainable economic development and offers significant long-term benefits.
Those in favor of renewable energy investments argue that it can drive economic growth through various channels. Firstly, the renewable energy sector creates new jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of clean energy infrastructure. For instance, the solar industry in the United States has experienced job growth rates significantly higher than the overall economy in recent years. Moreover, investing in renewable technologies can foster innovation and technological advancements, potentially leading to new export opportunities and economic diversification. Countries like Germany and Denmark have already demonstrated how leadership in wind energy technology can translate into economic advantages.
On the other hand, critics argue that the high upfront costs of renewable energy projects could divert resources from other vital areas of the economy. They contend that expensive renewable energy infrastructure might increase energy prices, potentially reducing competitiveness and hurting energy-intensive industries. Furthermore, some argue that developing countries, in particular, cannot afford to prioritize renewable energy over more immediate economic needs.
However, I believe that the long-term economic benefits of renewable energy far outweigh the short-term costs. Transitioning to renewable energy sources can reduce a country’s dependence on volatile fossil fuel markets, leading to greater energy security and economic stability. Additionally, the decreasing costs of renewable technologies, coupled with the avoided expenses of environmental degradation and health issues associated with fossil fuels, make renewable energy increasingly cost-effective. Countries that invest early in renewable energy are likely to gain a competitive advantage in the global green economy of the future.
In conclusion, while the initial investment in renewable energy may be substantial, its potential to drive sustainable economic growth through job creation, innovation, and long-term cost savings makes it a crucial strategy for future development. Governments and businesses should view renewable energy not as a burden, but as an opportunity for economic transformation and resilience.
(Word count: 345)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The debate about renewable energy and its impact on economic growth is becoming more important. Some people think investing in renewable energy is good for the economy, while others believe it’s too expensive and might slow down development. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support investing in renewable energy say it can help the economy grow. They argue that it creates new jobs in areas like solar panel manufacturing and wind turbine installation. For example, many countries have seen an increase in green jobs in recent years. Also, developing new technologies in renewable energy can help countries sell these to other nations, which is good for the economy.
On the other hand, some people think renewable energy is too expensive and might harm economic growth. They say that building solar farms and wind turbines costs a lot of money, which could be used for other important things like education or healthcare. They also worry that renewable energy might make electricity more expensive, which could be bad for businesses and ordinary people.
In my opinion, I think investing in renewable energy is important for long-term economic growth, even if it’s expensive at first. While it’s true that it costs a lot to start with, I believe it will save money in the future and create new opportunities for economic development. For example, countries that develop good renewable energy technology could sell this to other countries, which would be good for their economy.
To conclude, although there are concerns about the cost of renewable energy, I believe its benefits for the economy in the long run make it a worthwhile investment. Governments should try to balance the initial costs with the future benefits when making decisions about energy policy.
(Word count: 287)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
These days, people are talking a lot about renewable energy and how it affects the economy. Some think it’s good for economic growth, but others say it’s too expensive. I will talk about both ideas and give my thoughts.
People who like renewable energy say it’s good for the economy. They think it makes new jobs, like making solar panels or putting up wind turbines. This can help more people get work. Also, if a country is good at making renewable energy things, they can sell them to other countries and make money.
But some people don’t agree. They think renewable energy costs too much money. They say that building things for renewable energy is very expensive, and this money could be used for other important things. They also worry that it might make electricity more expensive for everyone.
I think that even though renewable energy costs a lot at first, it’s still a good idea. It can help the environment and make countries less dependent on oil and gas from other places. In the future, it might even become cheaper than other types of energy.
In conclusion, I believe renewable energy is important for the economy, even if it’s expensive now. Countries should try to use more renewable energy, but they should also think carefully about how to do it without causing problems for the economy.
(Word count: 219)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Demonstrates a sophisticated approach to the topic with well-developed ideas
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and flexibly (e.g., “focal point”, “sustainable economic development”, “foster innovation”)
- Employs a variety of complex sentence structures
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Provides relevant examples and fully extends and supports ideas
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Has generally good control of grammar and vocabulary with some errors
- Presents a clear overall progression, though occasionally repetitive or not well-linked
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but development is not always clear and ideas may be repetitive
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, which may be minimally adequate for the task
- Makes noticeable errors in grammar and vocabulary but meaning is generally clear
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from a source that is not depleted when used
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities
- Diversification (noun) /daɪˌvɜːsɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – the action of diversifying a business or country’s interests
- Competitiveness (noun) /kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/ – the quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature
- Volatility (noun) /ˌvɒləˈtɪləti/ – liability to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse
- Degradation (noun) /ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – the process of becoming worse or less in quality
- Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the action or process of innovating
- Transformation (noun) /ˌtrænsfəˈmeɪʃn/ – a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance
In conclusion, the topic of renewable energy and its impact on economic development is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for similar questions, consider practicing with prompts such as:
- Discuss the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a green economy.
- Some people argue that developing countries should prioritize economic growth over environmental concerns. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- Examine the role of government policies in promoting renewable energy adoption and economic development.
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share your attempts in the comments section for feedback and improvement. Remember, consistent practice is key to mastering IELTS Writing Task 2!
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- Should Governments Invest More in Renewable Energy Infrastructure?
- Importance of Renewable Energy for Reducing Air Pollution
- Should Countries Prioritize Environmental Sustainability Over Economic Growth?
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to practice regularly, analyze sample essays, and continuously expand your vocabulary and knowledge on current global issues.