TOEFL iBT Reading 問題にチャレンジ！！/ Reading / The Economic Impact of Renewable Energy Innovations / Economy

TOEFL iBT Reading で重要なのはとにかく実践問題をひたすら解いて、読んで、音読してまた読むことが重要です！！脳みそを英語に変換する必要がありますが、その変換プロセスに近道はありません。

難易度は 2 です。（5段階評価です。主観的判断です。。）

In recent decades, the global economy has undergone significant changes due to advancements in renewable energy technologies. Solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy sources have revolutionized the way societies produce and consume energy. While the primary goal of these technologies is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, their impact on global and local economies is equally profound.

One of the most notable economic benefits of renewable energy innovations is job creation. Unlike fossil fuel industries, which rely on a finite supply of resources and are often highly mechanized, renewable energy industries demand a diverse and skilled workforce. For instance, installing solar panels requires engineers, electricians, and project managers, while wind farms need technicians to maintain and repair turbines. According to a 2022 report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), renewable energy industries employed over 12 million people worldwide, a figure projected to grow as governments continue to invest in sustainable infrastructure.

In addition to creating jobs, renewable energy reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels, leading to greater energy independence for many nations. Countries that previously spent large portions of their budgets importing oil or natural gas can now invest those funds domestically. For example, Iceland, which generates nearly all of its electricity from geothermal and hydropower, has significantly reduced its dependence on foreign energy sources. This not only strengthens the national economy but also insulates it from price fluctuations in the global energy market.

However, the transition to renewable energy is not without its challenges. The initial costs of developing and implementing renewable energy technologies can be prohibitively high for developing nations. Building wind farms or installing solar panels requires significant upfront investment, which many governments and private companies may be unable or unwilling to afford. Additionally, the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources—such as the reliance on sunlight or wind—necessitates the development of advanced energy storage systems, which further increases costs.

Despite these obstacles, the long-term economic advantages of renewable energy far outweigh the drawbacks. By reducing pollution-related health costs, fostering technological innovation, and stabilizing energy prices, renewables have the potential to drive sustainable economic growth. As nations continue to collaborate on climate goals, renewable energy will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of both science and the global economy.

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**Questions**

**1. What is the primary purpose of the passage?**
A) To discuss the environmental benefits of renewable energy technologies
B) To explain the economic impact of renewable energy innovations
C) To describe the challenges faced by fossil fuel industries
D) To analyze the scientific principles behind renewable energy

**2. According to the passage, how does renewable energy contribute to job creation?**
A) By requiring fewer skilled workers than traditional energy industries
B) By relying heavily on mechanized production processes
C) By creating diverse roles such as engineers and technicians
D) By eliminating the need for energy imports

**3. The passage mentions Iceland as an example of a country that has benefited economically from renewable energy. What specific advantage does Iceland experience?**
A) Increased reliance on imported fossil fuels
B) Stabilized energy prices through fossil fuel exports
C) Greater energy independence and reduced reliance on imports
D) Higher employment rates in oil extraction industries

**4. Why does the author mention "the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources"?**
A) To highlight a scientific breakthrough in energy technology
B) To explain a challenge that hinders the widespread adoption of renewables
C) To demonstrate how solar and wind energy are superior to fossil fuels
D) To argue against the use of renewable energy technologies

**5. According to the passage, what is a long-term economic benefit of renewable energy?**
A) Lower initial development costs for energy infrastructure
B) A complete elimination of pollution-related health costs
C) Reduced reliance on energy storage systems
D) Stabilization of energy prices over time

**6. What can be inferred about the relationship between renewable energy and developing nations?**
A) Developing nations are leading the adoption of renewable technologies.
B) Developing nations often struggle to afford the upfront costs of renewable energy.
C) Renewable energy systems are primarily designed for use in developing nations.
D) Developing nations rely exclusively on fossil fuel imports.

**7. Which of the following best describes the tone of the passage?**
A) Pessimistic
B) Objective
C) Persuasive
D) Skeptical

**8. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit of renewable energy?**
A) Job creation
B) Reduction in health-related costs
C) Increased dependence on fossil fuels
D) Greater energy independence

**9. Summary Question:**
Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage.

**Introductory Sentence:**
Renewable energy innovations have had profound economic impacts, creating opportunities while presenting certain challenges.

**Answer Choices:**
1. Renewable energy technologies have created millions of jobs globally, including roles for engineers and technicians.
2. The reliance on imported fossil fuels has increased significantly due to the adoption of renewable energy technologies.
3. The high initial costs of implementing renewable energy systems can be a barrier for developing nations.
4. Renewable energy technologies do not require any energy supply, which hinders the development of energy storage technologies
5. Renewable energy reduces pollution-related health costs and stabilizes energy prices in the long term.
6. The Louisiana Purchase directly influenced the development of renewable energy technologies.