fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas are only available in limited quantities. They are produced naturally, but they do not replenish as quickly as we humans use them.
FREMONT, CA: Energy resources, such as wind, sunlight, rain, tides, waves, biomass, and thermal energy stored in the earth's crust, are nearly everywhere. Renewable energy can be used in all energy sectors, including power generation, thermal comfort in buildings, industry, and transportation.
Solar thermal water heaters, biomass boilers, heat pumps, and natural cooling are examples of how buildings can use renewable energy. Reducing the energy demand of buildings and industry is critical to transitioning to a renewable energy system. Because of this, a comprehensive policy approach to renewable energy and energy efficiency is vital.
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Renewable energy can also be used in industrial heating and cooling processes such as food processing and pulp and paper. For example, hydrogen generated from renewable energy can meet the demands of high-heat intensive industrial processes in the iron, steel, and chemical industries.
Renewable energy can be used in transportation in sustainable biofuels, high-percentage biofuel blends, and drop-in biofuels. Renewable energy has the potential to power the world's growing fleet of electric vehicles. Car batteries can be used as storage units to store electricity for later use. Renewable electricity can also create electro-fuels such as hydrogen, which can power long-distance transportation, aviation, and shipping. The transportation sector must reduce overall fuel demand, which can be accomplished through policies that promote energy efficiency and conservation.
Renewables will already supply 29 percent of global electricity. However, outside of electricity, the good news is still scarce. Electricity accounts for only 17 percent of the world's energy needs.
Many cities worldwide already get 100 percent of their electricity from renewable sources. They are now taking steps to expand their ambitions to eliminate the use of fossil fuels in heating, cooling, transportation, and industry. This report serves as an annual inventory of how city action can directly support the transition to renewable energy.