Renewable-energy sources are expected to contribute up to 80% of global energy supply by 2050, according to a new report published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) after a review of 164 scenarios. “The report clearly demonstrates that renewable-energy technologies could supply the world with more energy than it would ever need and at highly competitive costs,” says Global Wind Energy Council secretary-general Steve Sawyer. “The IPCC report will be a key reference for policymakers and industry alike, as it represents the most comprehensive high-level review of renewable-energy to date.” The 1 000-page report, which was adopted by 194 governments after marathon negotiations on May 9, deals with the potential contribution from biomass, geothermal, hydro, ocean, solar and wind energy, as well as their potential to reduce greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions, their integration into energy networks, their contribu- tion to sustainable development, and the poli- cies needed to promote renewable energy.
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/renewables-to-supply-80-of-the-worlds-energy-needs-by-2050-2011-06-10