The relationship renewable energy sources use-economic growth: The case of developing countries and Turkey

The concepts of energy economy and energy policy are important factors affecting the economic growth levels of countries. According to the classification made by the United Nations, these concepts are even more important for developing countries. Energy use as input in production is seen as an economic growth dynamic. Energy use and increasing energy demand lead countries to alternative energy sources. Because of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy sources are considered as an alternative to fossil based energy sources which have a large share in the energy market. In this study, the relationship between renewable energy use and economic growth is analyzed for selected developing countries. The analysis examines the relationship between renewable energy use, non-renewable energy use, CO2 emissions per capita and income per capita between 1995 and 2014. As a result, it was found that all three independent variables had a positive effect on economic growth. Yet another problem seems to be combating climate change. Therefore, the promotion of renewable energy for developing countries is essential for sustainable future. Keywords: Renewable Energy Use, Climate Change, Developing Countries, Economic Growth