【大学受験対策】英語長文問題64（エネルギー）339語＋和訳・解答解説

As the world confronts the realities of climate change, the need for cleaner, more sustainable energy sources has become increasingly urgent. Fossil fuels—coal, oil, and natural gas—still dominate the global energy supply, but their environmental consequences are undeniable. In response, renewable energy has emerged not merely as an alternative, but as a cornerstone of a potential solution to one of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Renewable energy refers to sources that naturally replenish themselves, such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power. Unlike fossil fuels, these sources emit little to no greenhouse gases during operation. Technological advances in recent decades have significantly reduced the costs associated with renewable energy production, making it more accessible than ever before. For instance, the cost of solar panels has dropped dramatically, while wind turbines are now being deployed across vast regions, both on land and offshore.

The potential of renewables extends far beyond environmental benefits. Economically, the renewable energy sector has become a major source of job creation. From the installation of solar panels to the maintenance of wind farms, the industry offers employment opportunities in both developed and developing countries. Moreover, as nations seek energy independence, renewables reduce reliance on imported fuels, strengthening national security and stabilizing energy prices.

However, the transition to a fully renewable future is not without obstacles. One major challenge is energy storage. Because solar and wind power depend on weather conditions, their output is intermittent. Efficient storage solutions—such as advanced batteries—are essential to ensure a stable supply of electricity. Additionally, integrating renewable sources into existing energy grids requires complex infrastructure upgrades and policy reforms.

Despite these challenges, momentum continues to build. Countries around the world are setting ambitious targets for carbon neutrality and investing heavily in renewable technologies. If managed wisely, the shift to renewable energy could lead not only to a cleaner environment, but also to a more equitable and resilient global energy system. What once seemed idealistic is now within reach—powered not just by sunlight or wind, but by collective will and innovation.

Q1. According to the passage, what primary reason is given for adopting renewable energy?

1. Because renewables always produce more electricity than conventional fossil fuels.
2. Because governments want to eliminate all foreign energy imports entirely.
3. Because mitigating climate change demands cleaner, sustainable energy sources.
4. Because fossil fuel reserves will disappear completely within five years.

Q2. What chief economic benefit of renewables does the author highlight?

1. They create diverse employment opportunities across developed and developing nations.
2. They guarantee lower household electricity bills for every consumer worldwide.
3. They immediately double national tax revenues from the energy generation sector.
4. They abolish the necessity for any government subsidies or incentives.

Q3. Which of the following statements is NOT mentioned in the passage?

1. Technological progress has markedly lowered production costs of solar installations.
2. The industry now supplies a growing number of skilled technical jobs.
3. Modern biofuel plantations threaten global food security across poor regions.
4. Numerous nations are investing heavily to achieve ambitious carbon targets.