📋 Group Discussion (GD) Analysis Guide

🌐 Introduction to Renewable Energy Prioritization

Opening Context: The global push toward renewable energy has gained momentum as climate change and energy security become critical concerns. Nations are facing the challenge of balancing economic growth with sustainable practices.

Topic Background: Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower are increasingly seen as alternatives to fossil fuels, which dominate energy markets but contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Recent advancements in technology have reduced renewable energy costs, making this transition more feasible.

📊 Quick Facts and Key Statistics

• Global Renewable Energy Investment (2023): $1.7 trillion—surpassing fossil fuel investments for the first time (IEA).
• Fossil Fuel Contribution: Responsible for 89% of global CO₂ emissions (IPCC).
• Renewable Energy Cost: Solar power costs dropped by 85% since 2010 (IRENA).
• Energy Access Gap: Over 750 million people globally lack access to electricity, with renewables seen as a scalable solution (World Bank).

🤝 Stakeholders and Their Roles

• Governments: Policy creation, subsidies, and regulatory frameworks for clean energy transitions.
• Energy Companies: Driving technological innovation and operationalizing renewable projects.
• International Organizations: Advocating for global collaboration, like the Paris Agreement targets.
• Citizens: Shifting demand patterns and public support for sustainable initiatives.

🏆 Achievements and Challenges

Achievements

• Global Adoption: Countries like Germany and Sweden now generate over 40% of electricity from renewables.
• Technology Breakthroughs: Advancements in battery storage for stabilizing renewable grids.
• Economic Opportunities: Creation of over 12 million jobs in the renewable energy sector (IRENA).

Challenges

• Infrastructure Gaps: Many nations lack the capacity to integrate large-scale renewables.
• Economic Dependence: Developing countries rely on fossil fuel exports for GDP.
• Intermittency Issues: Renewable sources like solar and wind face variability.

Global Comparisons

• Success: Norway (98% energy from renewables).
• Struggles: India faces challenges balancing renewable targets with coal dependence.

Case Studies

• Kenya: Over 70% of electricity from renewables, driven by geothermal energy.

🔍 Structured Arguments for Discussion

• Supporting Stance: “Prioritizing renewables reduces long-term costs, creates jobs, and combats climate change.”
• Opposing Stance: “Fossil fuels remain vital for energy security and economic growth, particularly for developing nations.”
• Balanced Perspective: “While renewables are essential, transitional strategies must ensure economic and energy stability.”

🎯 Effective Discussion Approaches

• Opening Techniques:
  • Use data like “Renewables attracted $1.7 trillion investments in 2023.”
• Counter-Argument Handling: “While intermittency is an issue, innovations like battery storage and diversified grids are emerging solutions.”

📈 Strategic Analysis of Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths: Sustainable, job creation, reducing emissions.
• Weaknesses: Intermittency, high initial investment.
• Opportunities: Green economy growth, technological advancements.
• Threats: Geopolitical resistance, fossil fuel lobbying.

🔗 Connecting with B-School Applications

• Real-World Applications:
  • Projects in sustainable energy financing or policy analysis.
• Sample Interview Questions:
  • “How can renewable energy drive economic growth in emerging markets?”
  • “What role should public-private partnerships play in energy transitions?”