Author: Rod Janssen

Impact of fuel-efficient vehicles in Ireland

Frank McDonald writes in the Irish Times about the significant reduction in energy consumption by the switch to energy-efficient vehicles in Ireland.   Fuel-efficient cars reduce energy use by a quarter Consumer preference for more fuel-efficient cars has reduced energy use in the transport sector by 25 per cent since 2007, according to data released … Continue reading Impact of fuel-efficient vehicles in Ireland →

Britain turns to the Netherlands for a retrofit model

While Europe is increasingly turning to nearly zero energy buildings for new build, the need for that concept to take hold for existing buildings is important. Arthur Neslen writes an important article in The Guardian about how Britain is turning to an important development in The Netherlands. Is this the way for the future? Are … Continue reading Britain turns to the Netherlands for a retrofit model →

Using innovative financing to support renewable energy

Keith Findlay writes in the Press and Journal from Aberdeen Scotland of the use of crowdfunding to raise funds for new windfarm projects. The company involved, Triodos Renewables, was set up in 1995 and is a UK company managed by Bristol-based Triodos Bank.   Renewables developer launches crowdfunded share issue Green-energy firm Triodos Renewables is … Continue reading Using innovative financing to support renewable energy →

How renewable energy should be subsidised

Seldom do we think about how we should provide subsidies. Iván Martén. senior partner at the Boston Consulting Group, provides three important principles in a recent Wall Street Journal blog.   Three Principles for Subsidizing Renewable Energy Renewable-energy production brings extra costs to the power system that should be managed and subsidized in the most … Continue reading How renewable energy should be subsidised →

How businesses are getting ‘smart’ about saving energy

Krystle Morey provides us with a good post from the Albany Business Review in the US about the benefits to manufacturers from investing in smart technologies.   Manufacturer invests in 'smart' equipment to save on energy costs After watching his energy bill jump 40 percent last year during the winter, Scott Stevens is taking steps … Continue reading How businesses are getting ‘smart’ about saving energy →

Look who is supporting ambitious EU climate and energy targets

There are negotiations going on before the climate and energy targets for 2030 are decided upon last week. When you look at it graphically, it shows quite clearly where member states stand. The energy efficiency community has now to raise its voice. Only yesterday, the British energy secretary said there was room for compromise, but … Continue reading Look who is supporting ambitious EU climate and energy targets →

Dissecting Germany’s energy policy

Germany’s plan for a major energy transition, including phasing out nuclear power, came under the scrutiny of the Financial Times this week. The FT sees Merkel’s decision to eliminate nuclear power as a huge mistake. But the argument is deeply flawed because the FT makes no reference to Germany’s comprehensive plans to reduce energy demand … Continue reading Dissecting Germany’s energy policy →

Improving the sustainability of football

All sectors of our economies can make improvements to ensure greater sustainability. This article by Oliver Balch in The Guardian shows the efforts underway in “the beautiful game,” football and even some reference to American football. From organic pitches and recycled turf to footstep power and energy efficient lighting, new technology is taking football closer … Continue reading Improving the sustainability of football →