Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. an installation
    • ex. The worker did three internet installations today.
  2. benefit
    • ex. Many students can benefit from extra reading practice.
  3. a supplier
    • ex. Our company buys paper from a local supplier.
  4. a think tank
    • ex. The think tank published a report about climate change.
  5. renewable
    • ex. Many countries are investing in renewable energy projects.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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Rising fuel prices linked to the Iran war are pushing more people in Asia to buy rooftop solar systems. In the Philippines, where the country faces a national energy emergency, a survey of 20 solar companies showed a 70% rise in weekly installations after the conflict began. Customer inquiries also increased six times. Brenda Valerio of New Energy Nexus said many families now want solar power quickly because they hope to lower electricity costs and avoid future price increases.

China may benefit most from the growing demand because it is the world’s largest supplier of solar technology. Energy think tank Ember said Chinese exports of clean energy equipment reached a record high in March. Li Shuo of the Asia Society Policy Institute said China is far ahead in the renewable energy industry as more countries around the world become interested in solar power.

Several Southeast Asian countries are expanding rooftop solar programs. Indonesia plans to install 100 gigawatts by 2034, while Vietnam wants solar systems on at least 10% of homes and public buildings by 2030. Thailand is also studying new policies to support rooftop solar users.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Rising Fuel Prices and Energy Costs

  • Fuel prices are increasing in many countries. How do you think higher electricity or fuel prices affect daily life? Discuss.
  • What do you think people should do to save money and power when energy becomes expensive? Discuss.
  • Do you think saving energy is easy or difficult for most people? Why? Discuss.

Solar Power and Renewable Energy

  • More families in Asia are buying rooftop solar systems. Would you like to use solar panels at your home? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Do you think governments should spend more money on renewable energy? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • What energy sources do you think will be most common in 20 years? Discuss.