The overwhelming scientific consensus is clear: human-generated greenhouse gas emissions are the primary driver of climate change. While there is global recognition of the threat it poses, the world remains divided on how best to address this challenge. Climate action varies significantly across the world’s leading economies, influenced by political shifts, economic interests, and policy decisions.
As nations strive to balance energy security and environmental goals, we observe a mixture of progress and setbacks in the transition to cleaner energy. Below, we explore key developments in energy and renewables across some of the world’s most influential economies, highlighting both the growing momentum and the hurdles we face.
USA: A Shifting Landscape
In the United States, renewable energy policy has remained inconsistent under President Trump’s second term in office. During his presidency, Trump rolled back several environmental regulations, including withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and scaling back clean energy initiatives. In his second term, while there is a renewed emphasis on energy security and economic growth, his administration has continued to favour fossil fuels over renewable energy in many policy areas.
However, some positive strides have been made at the state level, where many regions have continued to push forward with renewable energy projects, regardless of the federal stance. These state-led initiatives reflect a growing recognition of the importance of transitioning to a clean energy future, even as national leadership faces challenges in aligning with global climate efforts.
European Union: Leading with Commitment
The European Union is a global leader in renewable energy adoption, unwavering in its dedication to combating climate change. The EU’s European Green Deal sets a robust path to reduce fossil fuel dependence and increase renewable energy contributions. As part of its commitment to a low-carbon future, the EU has pledged to phase out Russian oil, gas, and coal by 2027, while continuing to expand its renewable energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, the UK remains dedicated to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a targeted 81% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035.
Despite the EU’s leadership, political and economic challenges persist. For example, ongoing debates around aviation expansion and North Sea oil exploration highlight tensions between environmental goals and economic interests. These issues demonstrate that while substantial progress is being made, balancing growth and sustainability remains a complex task.
China: A Dual Approach to Energy Transition
China has set ambitious goals, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2060. It is already the global leader in solar and wind power capacity. However, despite its push toward renewables, China continues to invest heavily in coal-fired power plants to meet its immediate energy demands. This dual approach—advancing renewables while maintaining traditional energy sources—reflects the delicate balance China faces as it navigates its energy transition.
Australia: Building a Green Future
Australia is actively pursuing its net-zero goals, with over $2 billion invested in green energy projects. The country is making notable strides in its renewable energy infrastructure, particularly in solar and wind power, and has committed to reducing emissions while enhancing its green energy capabilities. However, the global political landscape remains unpredictable, creating uncertainty in how quickly global initiatives will align.
South America: Diverging Views
In South America, countries like Brazil present a more complicated picture. While Brazil has expressed concerns over certain international climate measures—such as a proposed global shipping levy—its government is also making efforts to address deforestation and encourage cleaner energy solutions. The future of climate policy in South America is highly dependent on domestic political climates and international collaboration.
Global Energy Supply and Renewables
Despite variations in national policies, one overarching trend is clear: the global energy supply is rapidly shifting toward renewables. By 2025, up to 90% of new global energy capacity is expected to come from renewable sources, with projected investments of up to $728 billion. This expansion is fuelled by growing recognition of the importance of sustainable energy as well as the increasing affordability of renewable technologies.
Renewable Energy Capacities Around the World
European Union
As of 2023, the EU derived about 24.5% of its total energy consumption from renewables. By 2030, the EU aims to increase this share to 42.5% through policies such as the Renewable Energy Directive.
United Kingdom
In 2024, the UK achieved a historic 58% of electricity generation from low-carbon sources, with wind, solar, and biomass contributing 45%. The UK is on track to meet its goal of 95% low-carbon electricity by 2030, with major investments in offshore wind capacity.
United States
Renewable sources accounted for 22.7% of the United States’ electricity generation in 2023, primarily from wind and solar. The US aims to reach 80% renewable electricity by 2030, though shifts in political leadership present uncertainties for the speed of progress.
China
China’s renewable energy accounted for 30.6% of electricity generation in 2023, with significant contributions from wind and solar, alongside its dominant hydroelectric power. Its 2060 carbon neutrality target will likely drive continued growth in clean energy technologies.
Australia
Australia’s renewable energy mix contributed 34% of its electricity in 2023, with plans to expand this to 82% by 2030.
India
India’s renewable energy made up 19.5% of electricity generation in 2023, with a goal of achieving 50% non-fossil fuel consumption by 2030.
Careers in Energy & Renewables: Opportunities Across the Sector
The energy and renewables sector offers an ever-expanding array of career opportunities across both emerging startups and established companies. As nations commit to cleaner energy, there is increasing demand for professionals with expertise in technology, project management, policy, and business leadership.
Innovative companies at the forefront of energy transformation are building new technologies to drive decarbonisation, while established players are ramping up efforts to implement and scale energy transition projects. This creates a wealth of opportunities, particularly for individuals with entrepreneurial spirits and leadership skills.
Career paths in energy transition range from technical roles such as engineering and project management, to leadership positions in business development, strategy, and commercial management. The sector is also seeing a growing need for professionals to lead and implement energy transition initiatives within more mature businesses. With governments and private companies heavily investing in renewables, the potential for leadership roles—especially in commercial strategy—is immense. Entrepreneurs can thrive by developing new solutions to meet the demand for clean energy, while skilled professionals will be in high demand to support the rollout of energy transition projects globally.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
The global energy landscape is undergoing profound transformation, with renewable energy emerging as a cornerstone of our collective future. While the road to mitigating climate change is complex, there is a strong commitment from many of the world’s largest economies to reduce fossil fuel dependence and increase investment in renewable energy solutions. In particular, the European Union, the United Kingdom, China, and Australia are leading the charge.
However, political and economic shifts in countries like the United States and Brazil introduce challenges that could slow progress. Nevertheless, the overarching trend is clear: the future of energy is renewable. With new technologies, increasing investments, and a growing workforce, the transition to a cleaner energy future is not just possible—it is underway.
For professionals eager to contribute to this critical global effort, the renewable energy sector offers diverse and exciting opportunities. Whether through technical, commercial, or leadership roles, the industry presents an unparalleled chance to be part of a movement that will shape the future of our planet.
