Social, economic, and environmental impacts of renewable energy technologies

The escalating impacts of climate change and the depletion of fossil fuels necessitate a global transition to renewable energy technologies (RETs). This chapter explores the social, economic, and environmental impacts of RETs, aiming to assess their role in achieving sustainable energy goals. The primary objectives include evaluating how RETs influence job creation, air quality, public health, and gross domestic product growth, while addressing social acceptance and equitable energy access. Methodologically, the chapter synthesizes data from global case studies, surveys, and empirical research between 2010 and 2024, offering a multidimensional perspective. In 2024, global CO2 emissions reached 41.6 billion tons, prompting a critical shift toward RETs like solar, wind, bioenergy, and hydropower. Notably, RETs could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% by 2050 and potentially prevent 2.5 million premature deaths annually due to improved air quality. Employment in renewables rose to 13.7 million by 2022, with projections of 35 million jobs by 2050. The novelty of this chapter lies in its integrated assessment approach, combining technological advancements with social and economic metrics, while highlighting research gaps in equity, policy, and life cycle emissions. Future applications include developing equity-aware planning tools, digitalized energy grids, and policies supporting just transitions for marginalized groups. The findings offer a robust framework for future policymaking and guide the equitable implementation of RETs in the global energy transition. © 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved..