The topic of renewable energy versus fossil fuels has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of tests between 2020-2023. This trend reflects growing global concerns about climate change and energy sustainability, making it a crucial topic for IELTS candidates to master. Let’s explore one of the most common question types on this subject, which has appeared in various forms across recent IELTS examinations.
As discussed in why global warming should be prioritized in scientific research, this topic’s frequency in IELTS examinations highlights its global significance.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should invest more in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power instead of continuing to rely on fossil fuels. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on government investment in energy sources
- Compare renewable energy with fossil fuels
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Provide a balanced discussion if partially agreeing
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources has become an increasingly pressing issue, and I strongly agree that governments should prioritize investments in sustainable alternatives. This shift is crucial for both environmental preservation and economic sustainability.
Firstly, increasing investment in renewable energy technology would significantly reduce environmental damage. Unlike fossil fuels, which release harmful greenhouse gases and contribute to global warming, solar and wind power generate clean energy with minimal environmental impact. For instance, how renewable energy sources can reduce global dependence on oil has been demonstrated in countries like Denmark, where wind power now supplies over 40% of their electricity needs.
Moreover, investing in renewable energy creates substantial economic benefits. How renewable energy projects can boost local economies is evident in countries like Germany, where the renewable sector has generated thousands of jobs and stimulated technological innovation. This economic growth pattern suggests that government investment in renewable energy can simultaneously address environmental concerns and create economic opportunities.
However, the transition must be managed carefully to ensure energy security and stability. While renewable sources are becoming increasingly efficient, governments need to maintain some fossil fuel capacity during the transition period to prevent power shortages and maintain grid stability.
In conclusion, governmental prioritization of renewable energy investment is essential for creating a sustainable future. This approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also provides significant economic advantages, making it a crucial policy direction for modern governments.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that governments should invest more money in renewable energy instead of fossil fuels because it is better for the environment and the future.
The first reason is that renewable energy is clean energy. When we use solar power and wind power, we don’t make pollution like when we burn coal and oil. This is very important because the role of education in combating climate change shows us that we must take action now to protect our planet. For example, many countries are already having problems with air pollution from factories using fossil fuels.
Also, renewable energy will not finish like fossil fuels. We can always have sun and wind, but one day we will not have any more oil and coal. This means we need to change to renewable energy anyway, so governments should start now. Many countries like China are already building many solar farms.
However, changing to renewable energy is not easy. It costs a lot of money to build solar panels and wind turbines. Also, sometimes the weather is not good for making renewable energy. But these problems can be solved with more investment and better technology.
In conclusion, I think governments should spend more money on renewable energy because it is better for the environment and will last forever. Although there are some problems, the benefits are more important.
Key Vocabulary (Advanced Terms)
- sustainable alternatives (n.) /səˈsteɪnəbl ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪvz/ – environmentally responsible options
- grid stability (n.) /ɡrɪd stəˈbɪləti/ – consistent power supply in electrical networks
- technological innovation (n.) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – advancement in technical capabilities
- energy security (n.) /ˈenədʒi sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – reliable access to power sources
- greenhouse gases (n.) /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ˈɡæsɪz/ – atmospheric gases trapping heat
- transition period (n.) /trænˈzɪʃn ˈpɪəriəd/ – time of change between systems
- power shortages (n.) /ˈpaʊə ˈʃɔːtɪdʒɪz/ – periods of insufficient electricity
- environmental preservation (n.) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/ – protection of natural resources
Conclusion
The topic of renewable energy versus fossil fuels remains crucial for IELTS candidates. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of individual citizens in promoting renewable energy
- Economic impacts of transitioning to renewable energy
- Balancing environmental protection with economic growth
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.