Keys to the energy transition: nuclear, wind, solar and hydrogen energy

The energy transition implies moving from a generation model based on fossil fuels to one based on renewable and/or clean energies, which leads to a reduction in pollution and the emission of greenhouse gases, which in the fight against climate change, also allows nations to be more independent from external energy.

Among the keys to the decarbonization of the electricity sector is the promotion of renewable energies, the electrification of the economy and the increase in energy efficiency, thus developing a clean supply capable of meeting demand. Similarly, it is necessary to involve other industries in this transition, especially the transport industry.

Some of the most important energies for the successful implementation of this process are the following:

The energy transition implies moving from a generation model based on fossil fuels to one based on renewable and/or clean energies, which leads to a reduction in pollution and the emission of greenhouse gases, which in the fight against climate change, also allows nations to be more independent from external energy.

Among the keys to the decarbonization of the electricity sector is the promotion of renewable energies, the electrification of the economy and the increase in energy efficiency, thus developing a clean supply capable of meeting demand. Similarly, it is necessary to involve other industries in this transition, especially the transport industry.

Some of the most important energies for the successful implementation of this process are the following:

• Nuclear

Nuclear energy plays a fundamental role in the energy transition as it is the technology that works the longest, produces the most electricity and produces the fewest emissions, and is therefore key to guaranteeing the electricity supply. The operation of nuclear reactors is an important strategy for maintaining an efficient, job-creating and forward-looking industry.

Around 30 countries in the world have nuclear power plants, with more than 400 reactors supplying around 11% of the electricity consumed on the planet.

• Wind power

Wind energy is key in the production of electricity from renewable sources, mainly because wind farms operate in all terrestrial climates.

Experts have stated that Mexico could be an important player in Latin America’s energy transition. In 2019, the country had more than 6,237 MW of wind energy installed, which placed it in 16th position worldwide, although by 2020 it surpassed 7,000 MW, placing the projection for 2024 at 15,000 MW.

• Solar

The sun, which is of vital importance for all of us who inhabit this planet, is becoming increasingly important, and photovoltaic energy, which until a few years ago was considered synonymous with poverty, is now growing at exponential rates. Global photovoltaic capacity has increased from 40 GW to 580 GW during the last decade.

According to data from IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency), solar energy production costs have been reduced by more than 80 percent, and prospects indicate that new technologies will increase the efficiency of solar panels by 30 percent.

• Hydrogen

Hydrogen is also on the list of energies contributing to the energy transition. To this end, its clean production must be accelerated, since much of the hydrogen produced today is still made from fossil fuels; however, the production of so-called green hydrogen, which will multiply in value over the next few years, is on the rise.

The demand for hydrogen for industrial uses has continued to grow over the last half century. According to the IEA (International Energy Agency), around 75 million tons of this energy carrier are currently produced annually.