Renewable energy has received high levels of attention in recent years as an alternative to traditional hydrocarbons.  Governments, industry and consumers have adopted and promoted renewable technologies in response to concerns about energy security and the environment, and as a solution to electricity access problems in developing countries.  To what degree has renewable energy gained a share in the energy mix?  What lessons can be learned from efforts made thus far?

Renewable Energy – Market and Policy Trends in IEA Countries reviews the experience of IEA countries after the oil crises in the 1970s, which initiated a surge of investments in renewables research and development. While use of renewables has grown rapidly, they still account for only a small portion of the IEA energy mix.  Hydropower, bioenergy and geothermal energy are mature technologies that contribute about 5 - 6% to primary energy supply.  Solar, wind, and other new renewables have experienced rapid technology development, but as yet they represent only a small share. 

This work examines policies and measures that have been introduced in IEA countries to increase the cost effective deployment of renewables, reviews  the objectives behind these policies, and evaluates the results.  The aim is to identify best practices in order to assist governments in making future policy decisions.