In this article, we shall discuss the 5 countries with the cleanest air in the world. To read our detailed analysis of the renewable energy sector in 2023, go directly and see 30 Countries with the Cleanest Air in the World.
5. Estonia
AQI: 4.9
In Estonia, wind power is a major contributor towards electricity generation since it accounts for 65% of the country’s energy mix, while biomass accounts for 25%. Fossil fuels have historically been one of major sources of electricity in the country; however, Estonia has since undergone a deliberate transition away from fossil fuels in an effort to meet net zero standards. Some other sources of renewable energy prevalent within the country include biogas, solar, hydropower, and waste. By 2030, Estonia aims to generate 100% of its electricity using renewable sources of energy.
4. New Zealand
AQI: 4.8
New Zealand focuses heavily on generating electricity using renewable sources. In 2022, 82% of the country’s electricity was derived from renewable sources, mainly hydropower and geothermal power. Solar power has recently become incredibly popular in New Zealand, primarily due to its affordability. Furthermore, the country is rich in biomass reserves, pointing towards an incredible upside for the renewable energy sector in 2024.
3. Australia
AQI: 4.2
Australia’s primary sources of renewable energy include wind power, hydroelectricity, solar power, and geothermal power. It is actively working on generating much of its electricity using renewable sources, and as of 2022, 43% of the country’s electricity was generated through renewable sources. Solar power and wind power are one of the major sources of renewable energy in Australia. In 2022, solar power made up for 41% of Australia’s renewable electricity, while wind power constituted around 40%.
2. Grenada
AQI: 3.8
Grenada is a relatively small country and generates most of its electricity using fossil fuels. By the end of 2030, the country aims to generate at least 50% of its energy through solar and wind power. In 2020, Grenada generated 223 GWh of electricity, 98.12% of which was produced using fossil fuels. The reason it has made our list of countries with the cleanest air in the world is primarily due to its low population.
1. Iceland
AQI: 3.4
Iceland is a world leader in renewable energy, especially since 99% of all energy production in the country is carried out using renewable sources like geothermal energy, hydropower, and fossil fuels. In 2021, 65% of its total primary energy came from geothermal energy, while 20% came from hydropower. Iceland aims to transition to 100% carbon neutrality by 2040. The country is also known to be world’s largest green energy producer per capita.
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