Renewable energy and its effects on energy prices has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2019-2023, this theme appears in approximately 15% of essays focusing on environmental and economic issues. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question that exemplifies this topic.
Task Analysis and Sample Question
Some people believe that the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources will lead to lower energy prices, while others argue it will increase costs for consumers. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on renewable energy’s price impact
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Present a clear personal stance
- Provide a balanced discussion
Let’s explore how effectiveness of government incentives for green energy adoption plays a crucial role in this debate.
Band 8 Sample Essay
The impact of renewable energy on consumer prices has become a contentious issue. While some argue that green energy will reduce costs long-term, others maintain it will burden consumers financially. I believe that despite initial cost increases, renewable energy will ultimately lead to more affordable energy prices.
Proponents of renewable energy argue that natural resources like solar and wind power are essentially free, unlike fossil fuels which require constant extraction and processing. Once the initial infrastructure is established, the advantages of renewable energy over fossil fuels become apparent through minimal ongoing operational costs. Additionally, technological advancements continue to reduce installation and maintenance expenses.
However, critics contend that the substantial upfront costs of renewable infrastructure necessarily translate to higher consumer prices. They point to examples like Germany, where electricity prices rose following aggressive renewable energy adoption. Furthermore, the intermittent nature of renewable sources requires expensive storage solutions and backup systems.
In my view, while short-term price increases are likely, the long-term trend will favor lower costs. This is evidenced by the rapidly falling prices of solar panels and wind turbines over the past decade. Moreover, how renewable energy can affect global politics suggests reduced dependence on foreign energy sources will provide greater price stability.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Many people have different opinions about how renewable energy affects energy prices. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think renewable energy will make energy cheaper. They say that sun and wind are free, so we don’t need to pay for fuel like coal or oil. Also, solar panels and wind turbines are getting cheaper every year. In countries like China and India, renewable energy projects are already producing electricity at lower costs than coal power plants.
Other people believe renewable energy will increase prices. They say that building solar farms and wind farms costs a lot of money. Also, we need expensive batteries to store energy for when there is no sun or wind. Some countries have higher electricity bills because they use more renewable energy.
In my opinion, renewable energy will make energy prices lower in the future. Although the initial cost is high, the running costs are very low. Also, as technology improves, the price will continue to decrease. Therefore, I think renewable energy is good for consumers in the long term.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
- Advanced grammatical accuracy
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic organization
- Limited development of ideas
- Some repetition
- Occasional grammatical errors
Key Vocabulary
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing disagreement or debate
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical structures needed for operation
- intermittent (adj) /ˌɪntərˈmɪtənt/ – occurring at irregular intervals
- aggressive (adj) /əˈɡresɪv/ – forceful and determined
- operational (adj) /ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl/ – relating to the running or functioning of something
Practice Suggestions
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of government subsidies in renewable energy adoption
- Environmental versus economic priorities in energy policy
- The future of traditional energy industries
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember to maintain a balanced perspective while incorporating relevant examples from your country’s experience with renewable energy adoption.