Energy efficiency needs higher priority in Malta

Calamatta Cuschieri writes in the Malta Independent about the problems in Malta in implementing elements of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, specifically the Energy Performance Certificates. Flouting the law on energy efficiency – at what cost to us all? It has to be said that some positive steps have been taken to improve and … Continue reading Energy efficiency needs higher priority in Malta →

Some US states show that emission cuts are possible

Recently, the Obama administration announced plans to cut GHG emissions by 30% from power plants by 2030. Justin Gillis and Michael Wines write in the New York Times about the states that have already achieved such savings. In Some States, Emissions Cuts Defy Skeptics The cries of protest have been fierce, warning that President Obama’s … Continue reading Some US states show that emission cuts are possible →

Canada re-thinking its approach to climate change

Canada has been in the global doghouse concerning climate change ever since it decided to walk out of the Kyoto Protocol. Yes, it did make some half-hearted commitment at the climate conference in Copenhagen several years ago. The priority has been on resource development – mainly tar sands – but now Josh Wingrove writes in … Continue reading Canada re-thinking its approach to climate change →

The cost of deception

Canada’s tar sands and the means of getting the product to markets remain controversial in and outside Canada. Eric Reguly writes in Canada’s Globe and Mail about some of the misleading elements that have been included in the Canadian government’s attempt to sway American views. Canada’s $207,000 oil sands ad: Putting a price on deception … Continue reading The cost of deception →

In-depth IEA Review of the Netherland’s energy policies and programmes

The IEA recently published its most updated review of The Netherlands’ energy policies. The IEA’s announcement is available here. While EiD feels it is a good review, there is a heavy emphasis on renewable energy and energy efficiency certainly seems to be underplayed. it would be good to hear from friends of EiD if this … Continue reading In-depth IEA Review of the Netherland’s energy policies and programmes →

What they are saying

This week there was an open letter to UK Prime Minister David Cameron over changes to energy efficiency schemes, urging him to rethink planned changes to the ‘green levies’ deal. Dear Prime Minister, As an alliance of organisations concerned with improving energy efficiency through the refurbishment of Britain’s homes, we are writing to express our … Continue reading What they are saying →

In-depth IEA review of Austria’s energy policies and programmes

The International Energy Agency recently published its most updated review of Austrian energy policies. This covers everything from energy supply through to energy demand and includes R&D and links with climate change. The press release is available here. The following provides a quick snapshot of the sustainable energy aspects together with the key recommendations to … Continue reading In-depth IEA review of Austria’s energy policies and programmes →

Viewing Germany’s renewable energy plan from across the Atlantic

While Europeans are watching with great interest about how Germany is managing its energy transition, so are Americans. Melissa Eddy writes in the New York Times about the latest developments on Germany’s renewable energy plan Germany Moves Forward on Renewable Energy Plan Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government approved legislation on Tuesday revamping Germany’s sweeping plan … Continue reading Viewing Germany’s renewable energy plan from across the Atlantic →

The gloves are off in arguing for Scottish independence

In September, Scots will be voting on whether they will become an independent state. The debate, not surprisingly, is heating up. While Scotland has benefited from offshore oil and gas, the Scottish government sees its future in a green energy revolution. Scot MacNab writes in The Scotsman about whether or not independence will be a … Continue reading The gloves are off in arguing for Scottish independence →

Update on Romanian renewable energy situation

Following last week’s post on the green certificates allocated in Romania, Balkans.com Business News reports that Romania has already passed its 2020 target set through the European Union. Romania overshoots target for renewable energy The share of electricity produced through renewable sources reached a level of 41 percent in 2013, overshooting the target of … Continue reading Update on Romanian renewable energy situation →