Renewable energy and its potential to drive economic growth is a highly relevant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has appeared in various forms over the years and is likely to remain a popular theme given its global significance. Let’s examine a specific question that has been featured in past IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Some people believe that the development of renewable energy sources is crucial for economic growth, while others argue that it may hinder economic progress. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that renewable energy development is essential for economic growth
2. Explore the opposing view that it could impede economic progress
3. Provide their own opinion on the matter

It’s important to address all parts of the question while maintaining a balanced approach throughout the essay.

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 green technologies is vital for long-term economic prosperity, others contend that it may slow down immediate economic growth. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of renewable energy assert that its development is crucial for sustainable economic growth. They argue that investing in clean energy technologies creates new industries, generates employment opportunities, and reduces dependence on finite fossil fuels. For instance, countries like Germany and Denmark have experienced significant economic benefits from their early adoption of wind and solar power, including job creation in manufacturing and maintenance sectors. Moreover, as renewable energy becomes more cost-effective, it can lead to reduced energy prices in the long run, benefiting both businesses and consumers.

On the other hand, skeptics maintain that the transition to renewable energy sources may hinder short-term economic progress. They point out that the initial costs of developing and implementing renewable energy infrastructure are substantial, potentially diverting resources from other sectors of the economy. Additionally, traditional industries such as coal mining and oil production may face job losses, leading to economic disruption in certain regions. Critics also argue that the intermittent nature of some renewable sources, like solar and wind, could lead to energy instability and higher prices during the transition period.

In my opinion, while there may be short-term challenges, the development of renewable energy sources is essential for long-term economic growth and sustainability. The potential for innovation, job creation, and energy security far outweighs the temporary setbacks. Furthermore, the global shift towards a low-carbon economy presents enormous opportunities for countries that lead in clean energy technologies. To mitigate short-term economic impacts, governments should implement gradual transition plans and provide support for affected industries and workers.

In conclusion, although the development of renewable energy may pose some initial economic challenges, its long-term benefits for sustainable growth and environmental protection are undeniable. It is crucial for policymakers to balance immediate economic concerns with the need for a sustainable energy future.

(Word count: 329)

Renewable Energy Driving Economic Growth

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The development of renewable energy is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s very important for the economy to grow, while others believe it might actually slow down economic progress. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts.

People who support renewable energy say it’s good for the economy in many ways. First, it can create new jobs in areas like solar panel manufacturing and wind turbine installation. Second, it helps countries become less dependent on oil and gas from other countries, which can save money. For example, in some European countries, the renewable energy industry has created thousands of jobs and helped the economy grow.

However, there are also people who think renewable energy might hurt the economy. They say that it costs a lot of money to build things like solar farms and wind turbines. This money could be used for other things that might help the economy more quickly. Also, some worry that traditional energy jobs, like in coal mines, might be lost if we switch to renewable energy too fast.

In my opinion, I think renewable energy is important for long-term economic growth. Even though it might be expensive at first, it will probably save money in the future and create many new jobs. It’s also better for the environment, which is important for everyone. However, I think the change to renewable energy should be done carefully so that it doesn’t cause too many problems for people working in traditional energy jobs.

To conclude, while there are both positive and negative effects of developing renewable energy on the economy, I believe the long-term benefits are greater than the short-term challenges. Governments should plan carefully to make the most of renewable energy’s economic potential.

(Word count: 295)

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, many people talk about renewable energy and how it affects the economy. Some people think it’s very good for economic growth, but others think it might cause problems. I will write about both ideas and then say what I think.

First, some people say renewable energy is good for the economy. They think it can make new jobs, like people who make solar panels or fix wind turbines. Also, if a country uses more renewable energy, it doesn’t need to buy so much oil from other countries, which can save money. In some places, like Germany, many people have jobs because of renewable energy.

But other people think renewable energy might be bad for the economy. They say it costs a lot of money to build things like solar farms, and this money could be used for other things. Also, some people might lose their jobs in old energy companies, like coal mines, if we use more renewable energy.

I think renewable energy is good for the economy, but it might take some time to see the benefits. It’s important because it can help the environment and create new jobs. But we should be careful and not change too fast, so people don’t lose their jobs suddenly.

In conclusion, I believe renewable energy can help the economy grow, but we need to be careful about how we use it. Governments should make good plans to use renewable energy in a way that helps everyone.

(Word count: 234)

Renewable Energy Creating New Jobs

Explaining the Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
• Presents a clear position throughout the essay
• Uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and flexibly
• Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
• Organizes information logically with clear progression throughout
• Uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
• Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
• Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some inaccuracies
• Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
• Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
• Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
• Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
• Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
• May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader
• Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
• Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from a source that is not depleted when used
2. Economic growth (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ/ – an increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the population over a period of time
3. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
4. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
5. Intermittent (adjective) – /ˌɪntəˈmɪtənt/ – occurring at irregular intervals; not continuous or steady
6. Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
7. Transition (noun) – /trænˈzɪʃn/ – the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
8. Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – make (something bad) less severe, serious, or painful
9. Dependency (noun) – /dɪˈpendənsi/ – the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else
10. Long-term (adjective) – /ˌlɒŋ ˈtɜːm/ – occurring over or relating to a long period of time

In conclusion, the topic of renewable energy and its impact on economic growth is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for such questions, practice writing essays that discuss both the potential benefits and challenges of renewable energy adoption. Consider exploring related topics such as environmental sustainability, technological innovation, and government policies in the energy sector. Remember to support your arguments with specific examples and maintain a balanced approach while clearly stating your own opinion.

For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or a similar one, such as:

Some people argue that governments should invest heavily in renewable energy research and development, while others believe that money should be spent on more immediate economic needs. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.