The topic of government subsidies for renewable energy initiatives is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to global environmental concerns and economic policies makes it a prime candidate for IELTS essay questions.
Let’s examine a commonly encountered question on this topic:
Some people think that governments should subsidize renewable energy initiatives. Others believe that this money would be better spent elsewhere. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a balanced argument about government funding for renewable energy. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments in favor of government subsidies for renewable energy
- Present counterarguments suggesting alternative uses for the funds
- Provide a personal opinion on the issue
The key challenge is to present both sides fairly before offering a well-reasoned personal stance.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Preparation
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
In recent years, the debate over government subsidies for renewable energy has intensified, with valid arguments on both sides. While some advocate for substantial financial support to accelerate the transition to clean energy, others contend that these funds could be more effectively utilized elsewhere. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a personal viewpoint on this critical issue.
Proponents of government subsidies for renewable energy initiatives argue that such support is essential for combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future. They contend that without significant financial backing, the renewable energy sector may not develop rapidly enough to meet urgent environmental targets. Subsidies can help reduce the initial costs of renewable technologies, making them more competitive with traditional fossil fuels and encouraging wider adoption. Moreover, government support can stimulate innovation and create jobs in the green energy sector, potentially boosting the economy in the long term.
On the other hand, critics argue that these subsidies represent a misallocation of public funds that could be better spent on more pressing needs. They point out that many countries face immediate challenges such as healthcare crises, education deficits, or infrastructure deterioration that require substantial investment. Furthermore, skeptics contend that the renewable energy industry should be able to stand on its own merits in a free market economy, and that government intervention may lead to inefficiencies and market distortions.
In my opinion, while the arguments against subsidies have merit, the urgency of addressing climate change and the potential long-term benefits of a robust renewable energy sector outweigh the drawbacks. Government support for renewable energy initiatives can serve as a catalyst for technological advancements and help create a more sustainable future. However, this support should be carefully balanced with other national priorities and implemented in a way that encourages efficiency and innovation rather than dependence on government aid.
In conclusion, the debate over government subsidies for renewable energy is complex, with valid concerns on both sides. Ultimately, a nuanced approach that provides strategic support for renewable energy while addressing other critical needs is likely to yield the best outcomes for society and the environment.
(Word count: 339)
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
The question of whether governments should provide money for renewable energy projects or use it for other purposes is a topic of much debate. This essay will look at both sides of the argument and give my personal view.
Those who support government subsidies for renewable energy say it’s important for fighting climate change. They believe that without government help, renewable energy might not grow fast enough to reduce pollution and global warming. Subsidies can make clean energy cheaper, so more people and businesses will use it instead of fossil fuels. Also, government support can create new jobs in the renewable energy industry, which is good for the economy.
On the other hand, some people think this money could be better used for other things. They argue that there are more urgent problems like healthcare, education, or fixing roads that need money. These critics also say that renewable energy companies should be able to succeed without government help, and that subsidies might make the industry less efficient.
In my opinion, I think governments should support renewable energy, but they need to be careful about how they do it. Climate change is a big problem that needs to be addressed quickly, and renewable energy is an important part of the solution. However, governments should also make sure they’re not ignoring other important issues. They should find a balance between supporting renewable energy and meeting other needs of their citizens.
To sum up, while there are good arguments on both sides, I believe that supporting renewable energy is necessary for our future. Governments should provide subsidies, but they should do so wisely and consider all the needs of their country.
(Word count: 275)
Band 5-6 Sample Essay
Some people think governments should give money to renewable energy projects, but others say this money should be used for other things. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who want governments to support renewable energy say it’s good for the environment. They think it will help stop climate change. If governments give money, renewable energy will become cheaper and more people will use it. This can also create new jobs.
But other people think the money should be used differently. They say there are more important things like hospitals, schools, or roads that need money. They also think renewable energy companies should make money on their own without government help.
I think governments should give some money to renewable energy, but not too much. Climate change is a big problem and we need to do something about it. Renewable energy can help. But governments also need to think about other problems in their countries.
In conclusion, I believe supporting renewable energy is important, but governments need to be careful and think about all the needs of their people.
(Word count: 159)
Explaining the Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the topic
- Presents well-developed arguments for both sides
- Offers a nuanced personal opinion
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Maintains excellent coherence and cohesion throughout
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task
- Presents relevant main ideas but some may be underdeveloped
- Expresses a clear position
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary and mix of simple and complex sentences
- Shows generally good organization but may lack some coherence
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task but in a simplistic manner
- Presents some main ideas but with limited development
- Attempts to express a position
- Uses basic vocabulary and simple sentence structures
- Shows some organization but lacks overall coherence
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Subsidize (verb) /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz/ – to support financially
- Renewable energy (noun phrase) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from sources that are naturally replenished
- Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – a new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain rate or level
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – a new method, idea, product, etc.
- Inefficiency (noun) /ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsi/ – lack of productivity or effectiveness
- Catalyst (noun) /ˈkætəlɪst/ – something that causes activity between two or more persons or forces
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Allocation (noun) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – the act of distributing something for a particular purpose
- Deterioration (noun) /dɪˌtɪəriəˈreɪʃən/ – the process of becoming progressively worse
In conclusion, the topic of government subsidies for renewable energy is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Candidates should be prepared to discuss various aspects of this issue, including environmental benefits, economic implications, and alternative uses for public funds. To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Additionally, consider exploring related topics such as the role of private sector in renewable energy development or the impact of renewable energy on job markets.
