Luyện theo cấu trúc Cambridge IELTS 12 · Writing Task 2: Offshore Wind or Saving Energy?

As countries try to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, there is growing debate about how public money should be used. Some argue for large-scale investment in offshore wind farms, while others believe that reducing energy demand is a better use of resources. In my opinion, both are necessary, but generating clean power should take priority.

Supporters of offshore wind point to its enormous potential. Winds at sea are stronger and more consistent than on land, so turbines there produce electricity more reliably, and because they are located far from homes, they cause fewer complaints about noise and spoiled views. A country with a long coastline could, in principle, meet a large share of its electricity needs in this way, while also creating thousands of jobs in construction and maintenance.

On the other hand, those who favour saving energy argue that the cheapest and cleanest unit of electricity is the one that is never used. Offshore wind farms are extremely expensive to build and can take a decade to plan and complete, whereas programmes to insulate homes or replace old appliances can cut consumption almost immediately. These measures also lower household bills, which particularly benefits poorer families.

Although I accept that reducing demand is valuable, I believe that it cannot solve the problem on its own. Populations and economies continue to grow, and the shift towards electric cars and heating will increase the need for electricity rather than reduce it. Without new sources of clean power, much of this demand would still be met by burning coal or gas. Governments should therefore make offshore wind a central part of their energy strategy, while using regulations, such as stricter building standards, to encourage efficiency at relatively low cost.

In conclusion, both approaches have merit, but large-scale clean generation is essential if countries are to meet their future energy needs.