Energy efficiency initiatives create jobs, and normally very good jobs. Recent analysis shows that between 17 and 19 net jobs can be created for every million euros spent. That is a million euros from all sources. And since the analysis shows that energy efficiency activities are more labour-intensive than manufacturing, decision-makers should pay close attention. … Continue reading Creating jobs in the energy efficiency field – not an easy job, but worth it
Basics of energy efficiency – a basic need?
There is quite widespread acknowledgement of the importance of improved energy efficiency; but when the economy wobbles, energy efficiency assumes secondary importance, at best. Europe is making the transition to a low carbon economy. Council has agreed to an 80-95 % reduction in GHG emissions by 2050 if certain international conditions are met, and energy … Continue reading Basics of energy efficiency – a basic need?
In the news . . .
EiD has many colleagues who are convinced about the importance of being a vegetarian. This is an article from the Independent in the UK that will help their cause. Meat trade emissions equal to half of all Britain's cars Meat and cheese top the list of foodstuffs that have a negative impact on the environment, … Continue reading In the news . . .
Renewables news
The European Wind Energy Association has just published 2011 data on wind energy. Wind power capacity of 9616 MW was installed in the EU in 2011, at a value of €12.6 billion. This was down only slightly from 2010, when 9648 MW was installed. Wind power represented 21.4 % of total power capacity installations in … Continue reading Renewables news
Reliance on compliance
One six-storey building housing Canterbury Television in Christchurch, New Zealand collapsed during last year’s earthquake killing 115 people. New Zealand's department of building and housing found that the building did not meet minimum requirements, even when it was built in 1986. The report concluded that load-bearing concrete columns were reinforced with insufficient steel, making them … Continue reading Reliance on compliance
In the news . . .
This is a very interesting article on a unique system to use of sunlight to light buildings. Switch off the lights, here comes the sun By Rick Pilger Globe and Mail, Friday, January 27, 2012 For those of us who spend most of our days under the alien glow of the artificial light that … Continue reading In the news . . .
Brussels Briefing #1 – an ambitious Energy Efficiency Directive?
From a distance, and even inside Brussels, the process to put sustainable energy policies and programmes in place can be baffling. Here is an attempt to untangle the process for the draft Energy Efficiency Directive and the many voices trying to shape its final form. The Energy Efficiency Directive was published in June 2011. The … Continue reading Brussels Briefing #1 – an ambitious Energy Efficiency Directive?
Financing energy efficiency
It is well known that most energy efficiency measures are cost-effective in meeting energy policy and climate objectives but initial costs are often a barrier for consumers. When an energy company experiences major initial costs, for example in building a thermal power plant, banks will usually provide the necessary financing. It is much different for … Continue reading Financing energy efficiency
How To Achieve A Low Carbon Society #1
There is an interesting debate in the UK at the moment concerning the role of nuclear energy in a future low-carbon society. A recently published cross-party report finds that Ministers misled parliament about the need for new nuclear plants. According to the government's own figures, "there is absolutely no need for any more nuclear power … Continue reading How To Achieve A Low Carbon Society #1
Thinking Global
United Nations declares UN Year of Sustainable Energy for All The United Nations has made2012 the year of Sustainable Energy for All to support three inter-linked objectives: Ensure universal access to modern energy services Double the rate of improvement in energy efficiency Double the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. Anyone working … Continue reading Thinking Global
