Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Role of Government in Promoting Renewable Energy – Sample Essays and Expert Analysis

The topic of government’s role in promoting renewable energy has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on past exam trends and current global environmental concerns, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a few relevant question types that have appeared or could potentially appear in IELTS Writing Task 2:

1. Some people believe that the government should invest more in renewable energy sources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

2. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of government intervention in promoting renewable energy.

3. Some argue that it’s the responsibility of individuals, not governments, to adopt renewable energy. Do you agree or disagree?

For this article, we’ll focus on the first question, as it directly addresses the government’s role and is a common format in IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that the government should invest more in renewable energy sources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This question requires you to:

1. Understand the concept of government investment in renewable energy
2. Form an opinion on whether you agree or disagree with increased government investment
3. Provide reasons and examples to support your stance
4. Consider potential counterarguments

Remember, there’s no “correct” answer – the examiners are looking for a well-structured, coherent argument that demonstrates your ability to analyze the issue and express your thoughts clearly in English.

Government Investment in Renewable Energy

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a sample essay that could potentially score in the Band 8-9 range:

I strongly agree that governments should increase their investment in renewable energy sources. This approach is crucial for addressing climate change, ensuring energy security, and stimulating economic growth through innovation.

Firstly, increased government investment in renewables is essential for combating climate change. As the primary entities capable of implementing large-scale policy changes, governments have a responsibility to lead the transition away from fossil fuels. By allocating more funds to research, development, and implementation of renewable technologies such as solar, wind, and geothermal power, governments can significantly reduce their nations’ carbon footprints. For instance, Germany’s substantial investment in its Energiewende (energy transition) policy has resulted in renewables accounting for over 40% of its electricity production in 2019, dramatically lowering the country’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Moreover, investing in renewable energy enhances national energy security. Unlike fossil fuels, which are often imported and subject to price volatility and geopolitical tensions, renewable energy sources are domestically available and have predictable costs once infrastructure is in place. Denmark’s heavy investment in wind power, for example, has not only made it a world leader in wind energy technology but has also significantly reduced its dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Furthermore, government investment in renewables can drive economic growth through innovation and job creation. The renewable energy sector is a rapidly growing field that requires skilled workers across various disciplines. By investing in this sector, governments can create new jobs, foster technological innovation, and position their countries as leaders in the global green economy. China’s massive investment in solar panel production, for instance, has made it the world’s largest manufacturer and exporter of solar panels, creating millions of jobs and driving down the global cost of solar energy.

While some may argue that such investments could strain government budgets or interfere with free market dynamics, the long-term benefits far outweigh these concerns. The costs of inaction on climate change, both economic and environmental, are projected to be far greater than the investments required to transition to renewable energy. Additionally, government investment can help overcome initial market barriers and accelerate the adoption of renewable technologies, ultimately benefiting both the economy and the environment.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that increased government investment in renewable energy is not just beneficial, but necessary. It offers a triple dividend of environmental protection, energy security, and economic growth. As the world grapples with the urgent challenge of climate change, governments must take a leading role in driving the transition to a sustainable energy future.

(Word count: 398)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that might score in the Band 6-7 range:

I agree that the government should invest more in renewable energy sources. This is important for the environment and can also help the economy.

First, more investment in renewable energy is good for the environment. Climate change is a big problem, and using renewable energy instead of fossil fuels can help reduce greenhouse gases. For example, if a government spends money on solar panels or wind turbines, it can produce clean electricity without pollution. This is better for the air and can slow down global warming.

Second, investing in renewable energy can create jobs. When the government puts money into new energy projects, it needs people to build and maintain them. This means more jobs for workers. For instance, in some countries, there are now many jobs in installing solar panels on houses or working on wind farms. These jobs can help the economy grow.

Also, using more renewable energy can make a country less dependent on other countries for energy. Many countries have to buy oil or gas from other places, which can be expensive and sometimes cause problems. But if a country can make its own energy from the sun or wind, it doesn’t need to rely on others as much. This can save money and make the country more independent.

However, some people might say that investing in renewable energy is too expensive. It’s true that it can cost a lot of money at first to build things like solar farms or wind turbines. But in the long run, it can save money because the sun and wind are free, unlike oil or gas which we have to keep buying.

In conclusion, I think the government should invest more in renewable energy. It’s good for the environment, can create jobs, and can make a country more independent. While it might be expensive at first, the benefits are worth it in the long term.

(Word count: 309)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced thesis statement.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “allocating funds”, “geopolitical tensions”, “foster technological innovation”), while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates the ideas.

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the lower band essay uses simpler, but generally correct, sentence structures.

4. Arguments: Both essays provide clear arguments, but the Band 8-9 essay offers more specific examples and more in-depth analysis.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay has stronger paragraph links and a more logical flow of ideas.

Challenging Vocabulary to Remember

1. Renewable (adjective) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl/ – capable of being replaced by natural ecological cycles

2. Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/ – put into effect or action

3. Geothermal (adjective) /ˌdʒiːəʊˈθɜːməl/ – relating to or produced by the internal heat of the earth

4. Volatility (noun) /ˌvɒləˈtɪləti/ – liability to change rapidly and unpredictably

5. Transition (noun) /trænˈzɪʃən/ – the process of changing from one state or condition to another

6. Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – a new method, idea, product, etc.

7. Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒsəl fjuːəlz/ – fuels formed by natural processes such as anaerobic decomposition of buried dead organisms

8. Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community

Conclusion

The role of government in promoting renewable energy is a crucial topic in today’s world and is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you practice, consider other potential questions such as:

• Compare the effectiveness of government regulations versus market-based approaches in promoting renewable energy.
• Some people argue that developing countries should focus on economic growth rather than renewable energy. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments below for feedback. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.