The history of renewable energy suggests there is a steep learning curve, meaning that, as more is produced, costs fall rapidly because of economies of scale and learning by doing. The firms’ green innovation is path-dependent: the more a firm does, the more it is likely to do in the future. The strongest evidence for this is the collapse in the price of solar energy, which became about 90% cheaper during the 2010s, repeatedly beating forecasts. Moving early and gradually gives economies more time to adjust, allowing them to reap the benefits of path-dependent green investment without much disruption. A late, more chaotic transition is costlier.

Which one of the following statements best reflects the central idea of the passage?

The correct option is Timing plays a crucial role in the case of green technology development.

Step-by-step breakdown of the passage logic:

1. The passage outlines how renewable energy experiences path dependence and economies of scale, leading to rapid cost reductions over time.

2. Crucially, the passage emphasizes that "Moving early and gradually gives economies more time to adjust, allowing them to reap the benefits of path-dependent green investment without much disruption."

3. Conversely, it warns that "A late, more chaotic transition is costlier."

4. Comparing an early, gradual move against a late, chaotic transition directly demonstrates that timing is the decisive factor governing the cost, feasibility, and success of green technology adoption.

Therefore, the statement that best reflects the central idea of the passage is that timing plays a crucial role in green technology development.