The Reading section of the IELTS exam is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to understand and interpret written English in a variety of contexts. It typically includes three passages of increasing difficulty, with a total of 40 questions that must be answered within 60 minutes. The topics covered in the Reading section often reflect current global trends and issues. One such topic that has gained significant attention in recent years is the Impact Of Renewable Energy On Global Economic Policies.
Given the relevance of this subject, it is highly probable that it could appear in future IELTS exams. This article will provide a detailed reading practice passage on “The Impact of Renewable Energy on Global Economic Policies,” along with a set of corresponding questions and answers. This will help you improve your reading skills and boost your chances of performing well in the IELTS exam.
Reading Passage: The Impact of Renewable Energy on Global Economic Policies
Passage (Medium Text)
Renewable energy has become a pivotal focus for many governments worldwide due to its potential to provide sustainable energy solutions and mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. The transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power is influencing global economic policies in several significant ways.
Firstly, the adoption of renewable energy is driving innovation and economic growth. Countries investing heavily in renewable technologies are experiencing job creation and economic diversification. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy sector employed over 11 million people globally in 2018, a figure that continues to grow year by year. This trend is particularly evident in countries like Germany and China, where investment in renewable energy infrastructure has led to substantial economic benefits.
Renewable Energy Sources
Moreover, renewable energy is reducing dependency on fossil fuels, which has significant economic implications. Fossil fuels are subject to volatile global markets, leading to fluctuating prices that can destabilize economies. By contrast, the cost of renewable energy is becoming increasingly competitive. Advances in technology and economies of scale are driving down the costs of solar and wind power, making them more affordable and reliable energy sources. For instance, the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity has fallen by 82% since 2010, according to IRENA.
Renewable energy is also shaping international trade and geopolitical relations. Countries rich in renewable resources are gaining influence and forging new alliances. For example, European nations are collaborating on extensive wind farms in the North Sea, creating a regional grid that enhances energy security and political cooperation. In contrast, countries heavily reliant on fossil fuel exports, such as those in the Middle East, are reassessing their economic strategies in response to the global shift toward renewable energy.
Despite these benefits, the transition to renewable energy also presents challenges. Infrastructure development requires substantial upfront investment, and there are technical challenges related to integrating renewable energy into existing grids. Additionally, policy frameworks need to be robust and adaptive to support this transition. Governments must balance incentives for renewable energy development with regulations that ensure grid stability and energy security.
In conclusion, renewable energy is significantly influencing global economic policies by fostering innovation, reducing fossil fuel dependency, and reshaping international relations. As the world continues to shift towards sustainable energy solutions, the economic landscape will inevitably evolve, presenting both opportunities and challenges for countries worldwide.
Questions
Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)
- The renewable energy sector employed over 10 million people globally in 2018.
- The cost of renewable energy has remained stable over the past decade.
- European nations are collaborating on wind farms in the North Sea to enhance energy security.
- Integrating renewable energy into existing grids is a straightforward process.
Multiple Choice
-
According to the passage, which country has benefited economically from investment in renewable energy?
A) United States
B) Germany
C) Brazil
D) Russia -
What has happened to the cost of solar photovoltaic electricity since 2010?
A) Increased by 82%
B) Decreased by 50%
C) Decreased by 82%
D) Increased by 50%
Matching Headings
- Match the following statements with their corresponding paragraphs:
A) Job creation and economic diversification
B) Reduction in fossil fuel dependency
C) International trade and geopolitics
D) Challenges in the transition to renewable energy
Sentence Completion
- Renewable energy is increasingly __ compared to fossil fuels due to technological advances and economies of scale.
- Policy frameworks need to be __ to support the transition to renewable energy.
Answer Keys
-
True
-
False
-
True
-
False
-
B) Germany
-
C) Decreased by 82%
- Job creation and economic diversification: Paragraph 2
- Reduction in fossil fuel dependency: Paragraph 3
- International trade and geopolitics: Paragraph 4
- Challenges in the transition to renewable energy: Paragraph 5
- affordable and reliable
- robust and adaptive
Common Mistakes
- Misinterpreting Questions: Ensure you thoroughly understand the question; sometimes related information might be present, but it does not directly answer the question.
- Time Management: Practice managing your time effectively to ensure you can answer all questions within the allocated time.
- Skimming and Scanning: Develop these reading techniques to quickly locate relevant information without reading every word of the text.
Vocabulary
- Pivotal (adjective) /ˈpɪvətl/: Central and important.
- The transition to renewable energy is a pivotal focus for many governments.
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: To make something less harmful, unpleasant, or bad.
- Renewable energy helps mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change.
- Diversification (noun) /daɪˌvɜːrsɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/: The process of adding variety.
- Investment in renewable energy leads to economic diversification.
Grammar
- Passive Voice:
- “Renewable energy is becoming increasingly competitive.”
- Structure: [Subject] + to be + past participle
- Example: “The report was completed by the end of the month.”
- “Renewable energy is becoming increasingly competitive.”
Advice
To excel in the IELTS Reading section, practice regularly with passages on current topics like renewable energy. Focus on enhancing your skimming and scanning skills, time management, and understanding of various question types. Additionally, expand your vocabulary and grammatical knowledge to better comprehend and interpret the passages.
