The topic of government investment in renewable energy technologies is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current global trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to environmental issues, economic policies, and technological advancements makes it a prime candidate for IELTS essay questions.
Let’s examine a typical question on this topic:
Some people believe that governments should invest heavily in renewable energy technologies like solar and wind power. Others argue that this money would be better spent on improving existing energy sources. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents two contrasting viewpoints:
- Governments should invest heavily in renewable energy technologies.
- The money should be spent on improving existing energy sources.
The task requires you to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide your own opinion
- Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Renewable energy has become a hot topic in recent years, with many advocating for increased government investment in technologies like solar and wind power. While some argue that these funds would be better utilized in enhancing existing energy sources, I believe that substantial investment in renewable energy is crucial for a sustainable future.
Proponents of improving current energy sources argue that this approach is more cost-effective and practical in the short term. They contend that existing infrastructure can be upgraded more quickly and efficiently, providing immediate benefits in terms of energy output and reduced emissions. Moreover, technologies like clean coal and advanced nuclear reactors could potentially offer significant improvements in efficiency and environmental impact without requiring a complete overhaul of our energy systems.
However, I strongly support the view that governments should prioritize investment in renewable energy technologies. Firstly, renewable sources like solar and wind power offer long-term sustainability that fossil fuels simply cannot match. As non-renewable resources deplete, their costs will inevitably rise, making renewables increasingly competitive. Secondly, investing in these technologies can stimulate economic growth by creating new industries and job opportunities. Countries that lead in renewable energy innovation are likely to benefit from exporting their expertise and technology to others.
Furthermore, the environmental benefits of renewable energy cannot be overstated. Unlike fossil fuels, solar and wind power generate electricity without producing greenhouse gases or other pollutants. This is crucial in the fight against climate change and for improving air quality in urban areas. Additionally, as these technologies advance, their efficiency and reliability continue to improve, addressing previous concerns about intermittency and storage.
In conclusion, while there is merit in improving existing energy sources, I believe the long-term benefits of investing in renewable energy far outweigh the short-term advantages of enhancing current systems. Governments should take a proactive approach in transitioning to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources to ensure energy security, economic prosperity, and environmental protection for future generations.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band Score 8-9
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex ideas are expressed precisely (e.g., “stimulate economic growth,” “intermittency and storage”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. There are no noticeable errors, and the writing demonstrates full flexibility and control.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant supporting ideas and examples.
Government investment in renewable energy
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, there has been a debate about whether governments should invest heavily in renewable energy technologies or focus on improving existing energy sources. Both sides have valid arguments, and I will discuss them before giving my opinion.
Those who support investing in renewable energy believe it is important for the future. They say that solar and wind power are clean and will never run out. This could help reduce pollution and fight climate change. Also, developing these technologies could create new jobs and help the economy grow. Some countries, like Germany, have already made big investments in renewable energy and are seeing positive results.
On the other hand, people who think money should be spent on improving existing energy sources have some good points too. They argue that we already have a lot of infrastructure for things like coal and gas, so it would be cheaper and faster to make these cleaner and more efficient. They also say that renewable energy is not always reliable because the sun doesn’t always shine and the wind doesn’t always blow.
In my opinion, I think governments should invest in both renewable energy and improving existing sources. We need to think about the long-term future, so investing in renewables is important. But we also need to make sure we have enough energy right now, so improving current sources is necessary too. By doing both, we can have a smooth transition to cleaner energy over time.
In conclusion, while both arguments have merit, I believe a balanced approach is best. Governments should invest in renewable energy for the future while also working to make current energy sources cleaner and more efficient.
(Word count: 269)
Explanation of Band Score 6-7
This essay demonstrates good qualities that justify a band score of 6-7:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes mechanical.
Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but some repetition is noticeable. The language is sometimes imprecise.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Main ideas are present, but some points lack depth or specific examples.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities
- Efficiency (noun) – /ɪˈfɪʃənsi/ – The state or quality of being efficient
- Intermittency (noun) – /ˌɪntəˈmɪtənsi/ – The state of occurring at irregular intervals
- Deplete (verb) – /dɪˈpliːt/ – Use up the supply or resources of
- Stimulate (verb) – /ˈstɪmjʊleɪt/ – Encourage or arouse interest or enthusiasm in
- Transition (noun) – /trænˈzɪʃən/ – The process or period of changing from one state or condition to another
- Prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrɪtaɪz/ – Designate or treat as more important than other things
- Proactive (adjective) – /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Creating or controlling a situation rather than just responding to it
Conclusion
The topic of government investment in renewable energy technologies is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Similar questions might ask about the economic impact of renewable energy, the role of individuals in promoting clean energy, or the challenges of transitioning to a green economy.
To prepare for such topics, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The environmental impact of different energy sources
- The role of technology in combating climate change
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
- Government policies for promoting sustainable development
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, organize your ideas coherently, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Practice regularly and don’t hesitate to share your essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement.