It's World Energy Day today (hooray!). To mark the occasion, here's at a few renewable energy projects from around the world -- ones that we totally love.
1. Germany has invested big in solar and wind. And in the first six months of 2012, the amount of electricity produced using renewables jumped from 20% to 25%
And (get this) they're aiming for 80-95% CO2 reductions by 2050. Impressive!
2. Next up, this magnificent heart-shaped solar farm
When it's finished next year, this extraordinary power plant will generate enough electricity to power 750 homes.
3. Over in Portugal, a new record was set in 2013, when 70% of power was generated from renewables.
Portugal's a world leader when it comes to renewables, like the wave power machine in the photo above, which was the world's first when it was opened in 2007. And for a few glorious hours at the end of 2011, Portugal's entire electricity need was met by renewables. Go Portugal!
4. In Denmark during March 2013, wind accounted for more than 80% of power demand
It's a stat that puts us to shame in the UK, because even though we're one of the windiest countries in Europe, we're still far from maximising wind's full potential.
But it's not all bad news. Despite the government's dash for gas and more fossil fuels, there's lots going on at home.
5. Take Pendock Primary School, for example. These kids raised £9000 to buy solar panels for their roof
Since they were installed, the school's bought 50% less electricity.
6. Down in Sussex, one village is building enough solar to power 760 homes.
They're putting panels on schools, on farm buildings, and hoping to build a solar farm. Have a watch of the video – it's super cute.
7. Then there's the Isle of Eigg in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. It produces up to 90% of its electricity from solar, wind & hydro.
But the problem is that Eigg is just one island. Nationally, only about 10% of our power in the UK comes from renewables, even though there’s huge potential.
Politicians like David Cameron have a choice – more fossil fuels (booo), or get behind the renewables revolution (yeah!). Take action here, help the prime minister choose the right path.
8. And because we wouldn't want to finish on a downer... FLYING WIND TURBINES!
No, really. These are an actual thing. And high altitude = stronger winds = more energy + more efficiency. Total win!
