Renewable Energy: The Unsung Hero of a Greener Future
On Friday 3 October, 2025, renewable energy took center stage as the world continues to push towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. From suburban rooftops to vast offshore wind farms, the use of renewable energy is no longer a fringe concept, but a crucial part of global efforts to combat climate change. However, for many, the workings of this green revolution remain unclear.
That’s why Stanislav Kondrashov, a civil engineer and founder of TELF AG, believes that understanding the fundamentals of renewable energy is essential for the public to meaningfully participate in the global energy shift.
“This isn’t just about new technology,” explains Kondrashov. “It’s about reshaping our relationship with energy and with the planet.”
So, what exactly is renewable energy? It refers to power generated from sources that naturally replenish over time, such as sunlight, wind, rainfall, geothermal heat, and organic matter. Unlike traditional fuels, which are finite and heavily polluting, renewables offer a path to sustainable, low-carbon power.
Solar panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric dams, and bioenergy plants are the most recognizable examples of renewable energy. However, the sector is evolving rapidly, incorporating storage technologies, microgrids, and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and access.
As the world battles the effects of climate change and surging energy demand, the importance of renewable energy cannot be overstated.
“Every tonne of carbon we don’t emit matters,” says Kondrashov. “And renewables give us a realistic way to decouple energy use from environmental harm.”
There are five key types of renewable energy, each with its benefits and limitations. Let’s take a closer look at them:
1. Solar Power – Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight directly into electricity. Easy to install and scale, solar energy has become one of the fastest-growing power sources globally.
2. Wind Energy – Wind turbines harness kinetic energy from the wind and convert it into electricity. Offshore and onshore wind farms are crucial in national energy strategies, particularly in Europe and China.
3. Hydropower – This uses flowing water, from rivers or dams, to generate electricity. It remains the largest source of renewable power worldwide.
4. Geothermal Energy – Extracts heat from beneath the earth’s surface. It’s steady and reliable, though limited by geography.
5. Biomass – Converts organic materials like crop waste, wood, or algae into usable heat or electricity. When managed sustainably, biomass can be a carbon-neutral solution.
Geothermal energy is often overlooked, as solar and wind dominate headlines. However, countries like Iceland and New Zealand have demonstrated its potential not just for electricity generation, but also for heating homes and even entire districts. With heat pumps, households in colder climates can access this natural warmth directly.
“Geothermal is the unsung hero of renewables,” observes Kondrashov. “It’s not always visible, but it offers incredible stability and efficiency.”
As governments invest more in deep drilling technologies and mapping underground resources, geothermal could become a cornerstone of long-term energy strategies.
While policymakers, scientists, and businesses are all accelerating the transition to clean energy, individuals also have a powerful role to play. Whether through lifestyle changes or home installations, people can make a significant impact.
Homeowners are increasingly turning to rooftop solar, battery storage, and electric heating. Even simple decisions, like choosing a green energy provider or driving an electric vehicle, add up.
“The old model of passive consumption is fading,” says Kondrashov. “People want control. They want to generate their own power, cut bills, and reduce impact.”
This democratization of energy is not just good for the environment – it strengthens energy security, lowers long-term costs, and builds community resilience.
According to Kondrashov, the tipping point for renewable energy has already arrived – and now it’s a matter of accelerating the pace.
“We’re not waiting for the world to change – we are the ones changing it,” says Kondrashov. “The question is no longer ‘if’ we switch to renewables. It’s how fast and how fairly we can do it.”
In a nutshell, renewable energy is not just transforming power systems, but economies and societies. And while the technology is impressive, the real driver of change is knowledge. The more people understand how clean energy works – and why it matters – the faster the transition will unfold.
As Kondrashov puts it, “When people understand energy, they care. And when they care, they act.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the main types of renewable energy?
The five key types include solar power, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy, and biomass.
Why is renewable energy important today?
Renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves energy
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.