ADVANCEMENTS IN RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES: A DECADE IN REVIEW

Renewable energy technologies have experienced unprecedented advancement over the past decade, driven by climate change concerns, technological innovation, and supportive policy frameworks. This review synthesizes the existing literature on renewable energy technology advancements, examining key technologies including solar photovoltaics, wind power, biomass, biogas, and energy storage systems. The review also explores emerging trends including hybrid renewable energy systems, the integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, and the transition toward net-zero emissions. Findings indicate that significant progress has been made in improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing the reliability of renewable energy technologies. Solar photovoltaic costs have declined dramatically, wind turbine technology has advanced with larger and more efficient designs, and energy storage systems have become increasingly capable and cost-effective. However, challenges remain, including grid integration, intermittency management, and the need for continued innovation and investment. This paper contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive overview of renewable energy technology advancements and identifying critical gaps and opportunities for future research and development.