Renewables Rise as Nations Seek Energy Stability

Power-generating windmills line the hills of Quang Tri Province, Viet Nam.

As global energy markets remain volatile and oil prices stay high due to instability and conflict in the Middle East, more countries are turning to renewable energy investments. The goal is to shield their economies from shocks caused by fossil fuel dependence, reduce import bills, and meet key climate targets.

Unlike oil and gas, which expose countries to price spikes and geopolitical risks, renewables offer stable, domestically produced power. They can strengthen energy security, reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, and support long-term economic growth.

In the second part of our series on how renewables are shaping the future of energy security, we look at four countries working to increase their share of cleaner energy sources.

Why it matters:

As UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in March, “The fastest path to energy security, economic security, and national security is clear: speed up a just transition away from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy.”

Germany: Accelerating the energy transition

Germany, one of the world’s largest economies, has seen steady growth in renewable energy, according to its environment agency. This is part of its long-term shift away from fossil fuels.

Renewables are helping reduce dependence on imported fuels, protect consumers from global price shocks, and address climate change.

Energy mix:

Renewables provide 55% of electricity consumption

Wind and solar dominate

Biomass and hydropower also contribute

Fossil fuels are still used in industry and transport

Key challenge:

Wind power is the largest energy source, but its output can be inconsistent. Balancing industrial demand and maintaining grid stability remains a major challenge. Fossil fuel backup is still needed during the transition.

Progress:

Expansion of offshore wind and solar

Grid modernisation and storage investment are key priorities

India: Scaling renewables for development

India, the world’s most populous country with a fast-growing economy, still relies heavily on coal for electricity. However, solar and wind energy are expanding rapidly.

Renewables are helping reduce costly fuel imports and improve energy stability.

Energy mix:

Renewables account for around 30% of installed capacity

Solar is growing quickly

Coal remains dominant

Key challenge:

Meeting rising energy demand while reducing coal dependence remains difficult, especially with affordability concerns and the need for reliable supply across a vast country.

Progress:

Expansion of solar parks and rooftop systems

Growth in wind and hybrid projects

Development of green hydrogen initiatives

Solar-powered livelihood programmes are also improving rural incomes and energy access.

Bolivia: Shifting from gas dependence

Bolivia is working to reduce reliance on natural gas, which currently dominates its energy system. Hydropower is central to its long-term energy strategy.

Energy mix:

Renewables provide 30–35% of electricity

Hydropower is the main source

Solar and wind are expanding

Natural gas remains dominant

Key challenge:

Heavy dependence on gas revenues and limited access to financing make a rapid transition difficult.

Progress:

Solar expansion in rural and high-altitude areas

Development of wind farms

National roadmap for renewable growth

Nigeria: Unlocking solar potential

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, has significant renewable potential but remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels. Frequent power shortages and reliance on diesel generators highlight the need for a stronger renewable energy system.

Energy mix:

Renewables: 20–25% of electricity

Hydropower is the main renewable source

Solar is growing but underdeveloped

Gas dominates power generation

Key challenge:

Nigeria aims to generate 50% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. Achieving this will require major investment in infrastructure, grid reliability, and reduced dependence on gas-fired plants.

Progress:

Expansion of off-grid solar and mini-grids

National electrification programmes

Growing investment in household solar systems

The bottom line

Across very different economies, from industrialised Germany to emerging India and developing Bolivia and Nigeria, a clear trend is emerging:

Renewables are strengthening energy security

They are reducing exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets

They are delivering real benefits to people and economies

However, challenges remain, including financing gaps, infrastructure needs, and balancing reliability with rapid expansion.