The topic of renewable energy subsidies has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme has appeared in various forms, focusing on government support for sustainable energy development. Let’s examine one commonly tested question format and explore model answers across different band scores.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should provide subsidies to speed up the development and use of renewable energy sources. Others think that free market forces should determine whether renewable energy is adopted. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government subsidies in renewable energy
- Examine the free market approach
- Present and justify their own stance
Should governments provide subsidies for renewable energy has become a critical topic in modern environmental discourse.
Band 9 Model Answer
The debate over whether governments should financially support renewable energy development or leave it to market forces presents compelling arguments on both sides. While I believe a balanced approach combining both elements is optimal, government intervention through subsidies is crucial in the initial stages.
Proponents of government subsidies make several valid points. Firstly, renewable energy technology requires substantial initial investment, which many private companies might find prohibitively expensive without government support. Additionally, the positive environmental externalities of clean energy benefit society as a whole, justifying public funding. For example, China’s aggressive solar panel subsidies have led to dramatic cost reductions and increased adoption globally.
On the contrary, advocates of free-market approaches argue that market competition drives innovation more efficiently than government intervention. They contend that subsidies can distort market signals and lead to inefficient resource allocation. The success of Tesla in the electric vehicle market demonstrates how how renewable energy can drive innovation in the economy without heavy subsidies.
Government support for renewable energy development through subsidies and policies
In my view, while market forces are important for long-term efficiency, government subsidies are essential in the early stages of renewable energy development. The urgent need to address climate change requires accelerated adoption of clean energy, which market forces alone may not achieve quickly enough. However, these subsidies should be gradually reduced as technologies mature and become cost-competitive.
Band 7 Model Answer
The question of whether governments should provide financial support for renewable energy or let market forces determine its adoption is widely debated. This essay will examine both perspectives and provide my opinion.
Those who support government subsidies argue that renewable energy development needs initial support to become competitive. Should increasing fuel costs solve global environmental problems is a related concern that shows why government intervention might be necessary. Without financial assistance, many renewable projects might never get started due to high startup costs. For instance, many European countries have successfully increased their solar power capacity through subsidy programs.
However, supporters of free market approaches believe that natural competition leads to better outcomes. They argue that when companies compete freely, they develop more innovative and cost-effective solutions. Some point to examples where excessive subsidies have led to market inefficiencies and wasted resources.
Free market forces driving innovation in renewable energy sector
In my opinion, while market forces are important, government subsidies play a crucial role in promoting renewable energy adoption. The environmental benefits and long-term cost savings justify initial government support, although this should be reduced gradually as the technology becomes more established.
Key Vocabulary
- subsidies (n) /ˈsʌbsɪdi/ – financial support from government
- renewable energy (n) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from natural sources
- market forces (n) /ˈmɑːkɪt fɔːsɪz/ – economic factors affecting prices
- externalities (n) /ˌekstəˈnælɪtiz/ – side effects affecting others
- innovation (n) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – new ideas or methods
- cost-competitive (adj) /kɒst kəmˈpetɪtɪv/ – able to compete on price
- adoption (n) /əˈdɒpʃən/ – the process of starting to use something
Consider practicing with similar topics like Invest more in renewable energy sources? to improve your writing skills. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback.
