Wind and solar energy will be the future

This article, written by Ivan Penn for the New York Times highlights how solar and wind energy are increasing, while oil companies are collapsing. He states how renewable energy sources are supposed to account for nearly 21 percent of the United States' electricity, up 10% from 2010. This is due to in many states such as California and Texas; it's more economically viable than traditional fossil fuels.

I believe this is what's needed for the United States to produce renewable energy continually. Even in states where it's more expensive, I think legislation that awards companies who use renewable energy tax cuts would do wonders for the industry. In countries such as the Netherlands, this has already been done and with much success.

Due to the current pandemic, the industry, like many others, is facing challenging times. The Solar Energy Industries Association estimates that half of the 250,000 workers in the industry could lose their job. One can only hope that this is temporary and that those jobs will be restored once things are back to normal.

One aspect that is driving the industry forward is the drastically falling cost of solar panels. With technology becoming more advanced, it's is allowing companies to drop their pricing. Because installing solar panels in your house is such a large financial commitment, prices can increase consumer demand.

I have high hopes for the future of renewable energy, and hope by 2040, fossil fuels will be a thing of the past. Government funding needs to start transitioning away from fossil fuel and start moving towards more sustainable methods. Unfortunately, with the U.S producing more oil than ever, it certainly won't be easy.