Ever since Canada dropped out of the Kyoto Protocol and based its economic future on the tar sands, there has been little good news on its efforts to address climate change and sustainable development in general. A ray of hope comes from Marc Gunther writing in the Guardian about the role that oil producers may … Continue reading Some potentially good news coming out of Canada
New GBPN tool to promote deep renovations
The Global Buildings Performance Network (GBPN) is a globally organised and regionally focused organisation whose mission is to provide policy expertise and technical assistance to advance building energy performance and realise sustainable built environments for all. This week, the GBPN launched a new interactive Policy Tool for Renovation. The tool compares and analyses twelve best … Continue reading New GBPN tool to promote deep renovations
Saving energy in this digital world
Utilityproducts.com describes a new app for the iPad in the US that makes it easier for small businesses to participate in utility-sponsored energy efficiency programs. Undoubtedly, SMEs have been one of the sectors that have puzzled analysts because of the range of barriers stopping the energy efficiency potential from being achieved. Maybe these new approaches … Continue reading Saving energy in this digital world
If it heats up, we want to cool off
David Unger writes in the Christian Science Monitor about warming climates and rising incomes leading to a surge in cooling-related energy use, according to the latest report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It's one of several ways global warming is set to alter global energy supply and demand. IPCC global warming report: why … Continue reading If it heats up, we want to cool off
“Planetary insurance”
This week the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change published its latest report and, no doubt, you have had much to think about on where we are headed in terms of the importance of mitigation and the need to adapt. One cannot go without the other. This blog by Damian Carrington in the Guardian is important … Continue reading “Planetary insurance”
More innovation in energy storage
From the garage we move to the train tracks. Ambert Cortes writes in Grist.org how Greek mythology brings some lessons to energy storage. Is this train the “little engine that could” for clean energy storage? In Greek mythology, the story of Sisyphus endlessly rolling a boulder uphill is meant to be a cautionary tale. … Continue reading More innovation in energy storage
Storing more than old paint cans in your garage
Most garages I go into end up being junk piles. Those days now appear to be over. Todd Woodymarch writes in the New York Times about creating the self-sufficient home with a car’s battery as the linchpin. Car Companies Take Expertise in Battery Power Beyond the Garage As more homeowners generate their own electricity … Continue reading Storing more than old paint cans in your garage
EIB support for renewable energy in France
The European Investment Bank is turning into one of the largest financiers for sustainable energy. In 2013, alone, the EIB invested €19bn on climate change projects. The New Energy World Network reports on the latest loans for renewable energy projects in France. EIB to make €750m in loans for French renewable energy The European … Continue reading EIB support for renewable energy in France
This week’s briefs
These news briefs should be of interest to EiD readers. • Britain and the EU renewable energy target The Independent newspaper reports that, according to Eurostat, Britain is the third lowest producer of renewable energy in the EU, and is far below its sustainable energy targets for 2020, a recent study has shown. Britain is … Continue reading This week’s briefs
Efforts underway in EU to increase lending to SMEs
Analysts and policymakers are struggling to find a way to improve the long-term financing of small and medium-sized enterprises. This goes beyond energy efficiency and the problem is simply crippling many companies. James Fontanella-Khan reports in the Financial Times that are hopefully on the way within the EU to bring these reforms forward. Brussels … Continue reading Efforts underway in EU to increase lending to SMEs
