Presentation given by Frauke Urban (SOAS) at the University of Münster, January 2015
Part of the STEPS affiliate project on Low Carbon Innovation in China. Website: http://steps-centre.org/project/low-carbon-china
Sustainable energy for whom? Governing pro-poor pathways to low carbon energy...STEPS Centre
David Ockwell and Robert Byrne (University of Sussex/ STEPS Centre) gave this presentation at King's College London on 25 February 2014 as part of the Environment, Politics and Development Research Group seminar series.
Despite the potential development benefits of low carbon energy technologies, existing international policy has failed to deliver against the needs of low income countries or poor and marginalised people therein. This seminar presents (and seeks feedback on) preliminary findings from a CDKN-funded project on off-grid solar electrical services in Kenya (see http://steps-centre.org/project/low_carbon_development/ ). Utilising the STEPS Centre’s Pathways Approach, it is argued that the failure of existing policy stems from its tendency to frame low carbon development as a problem of financing low carbon hardware transfer to developing countries. Alternative conceptual framings, building on insights from innovation studies and socio-technical transitions, applied to in-depth historical analysis of the successful adoption of off-grid solar in Kenya, suggest neither hardware financing policies nor the free market are likely to result in widespread uptake of low carbon energy technologies amongst poor countries and poor people therein. Instead, interventions should seek to act as “innovation system builders” with an explicit focus on building inclusive innovation systems via a range of specific capacity building approaches.
Dr David Ockwell is a Senior Lecturer in the Dept of Geography at the University of Sussex and co-convenes the STEPS Centre’s energy and climate domain. He’s also affiliated to the Sussex Energy Group and the Tyndall Centre. David’s research focuses on low carbon development with particular recent emphasis on the implications of international policy in terms of poverty and social justice.
Dr Rob Byrne is a Research Fellow in SPRU (Science and Technology Policy Research) at the University of Sussex. He co-convenes the STEPS Centre’s energy and climate domain with David and is also affiliated to the Sussex Energy Group and the Tyndall Centre. Rob’s research focuses on low carbon development with a particular empirical focus on off-grid solar electrical services in East Africa where he has worked both as a practitioner installing solar home systems as well as conducting academic research on this issue
John Urry: Innovating Low Carbon Mobility FuturesSTEPS Centre
A presentation given by Professor John Urry, Director, Centre for Mobilities Research, Lancaster University, at the IN-EAST conference, University of Duisberg-Essen, November 2013. The presentation draws on Prof. Urry's 2013 book, Societies Beyond Oil: Oil Dregs and Social Futures. It is also relevant for his project: Low Carbon Innovation in China - Prospects, Politics and Pratice. Find out more: http://steps-centre.org/project/low-carbon-china
Beyond hardware financing: Pro-poor pathways to low carbon developmentSTEPS Centre
A presentation by Dr David Ockwell and Dr Rob Byrne, given at UEA in October 2013, as part of the project Pro-poor, low carbon development: Improving low carbon energy access and development benefits in Least Developed Countries (LDC). Find out more: http://steps-centre.org/project/low_carbon_development/
Benjamin Sovacool "The Nordic Low-Carbon Transition: Implications and Insights for Researchers and Practitioners" Keynote Energy Cultures Conference 2016
The Producers/Consumer off-grid has arrived, there is a lack of regulation. Utility Business should change.
What if some Utilities in Western Europe, Japan, Australia and USA by 2020 lose about 50% of their demands; and obviously the revenues associated with those operations? All because the Prosumers...
Jochem 2002 Steps towards a 2000 Watt-Society Ex Summmorosini1952
Jochem E. et al (2002) Steps towards a 2000 Watt-Society. Developing a White Paper on Research & Development of Energy-Efficient Technologies - Executive Summary - 19 p.
Executive summary
In the coming decades, the threat and consequences of
climate change and of the re-concentration of crude oil
production in the Near East will compel industrialised nations
to make much more efficient use of energy. R&D that helps
realise energy efficiency potentials is likely to be regarded as
important in scientific, entrepreneurial, and political realms.
Demand for highly energy-efficient technologies will rise
steeply, and firms that can provide them will prosper. The
identification of energy-efficient technologies and related
energy conservation potentials undertaken in this pre-study is
a first step toward designing a R&D strategy that is consistent
with the need to evolve towards a 2000 Watt per capita society.
Reaching this level by 2050 implies reducing primary energy
use from 1200 to 460 PJ per year, despite a projected 65%
economic expansion.
Jochem, Eberhard; Favrat, Daniel; Hungerbühler, Konrad; Spreng, Daniel; von Rohr, Philippe-Rudolf; Wokaun, Alexander; Zimmermann, Mark
This document discusses the political challenges of expanding electricity grids to accommodate increasing renewable energy. It argues that electric utility companies, with vested interests in the status quo, often oppose grid expansions that facilitate greater renewable integration. This resistance can slow the energy transition. The document also examines grid and policy issues in Germany, Japan, China, and considers implications for New Zealand's renewable targets.
Managing Variability, Uncertainty and Flexibility in Power Grids with High Pe...Leonardo ENERGY
In this webinar, Dr. Lawrence Jones will discuss, Renewable Energy Integration, a new ground-breaking book which offers a distilled examination of the intricacies of integrating renewables into power grids and electricity markets. Through thirty-five chapters, this first of its kind volume offers informed perspectives from internationally renowned experts on the challenges to be met and solutions developed by operators around the world. The book focuses on the practical implementation of strategies and provides real-world context for theoretical underpinnings and the development of supporting policy frameworks. It lays out the key issues around the integration of renewables into power grids and markets, from the intricacies of operational and planning considerations to supporting regulatory and policy frameworks; provides global case studies that highlight the challenges of renewables integration and present field-tested solutions; illustrates enabling technologies to support the management of variability, uncertainty and flexibility in power grids. During webinar Dr. Jones will overview different parts and key themes in the book, with a special focus on the subject of demand response, and other solutions for increasing power systems flexibility, and the role of big data.
Sustainable energy for whom? Governing pro-poor pathways to low carbon energy...STEPS Centre
David Ockwell and Robert Byrne (University of Sussex/ STEPS Centre) gave this presentation at King's College London on 25 February 2014 as part of the Environment, Politics and Development Research Group seminar series.
Despite the potential development benefits of low carbon energy technologies, existing international policy has failed to deliver against the needs of low income countries or poor and marginalised people therein. This seminar presents (and seeks feedback on) preliminary findings from a CDKN-funded project on off-grid solar electrical services in Kenya (see http://steps-centre.org/project/low_carbon_development/ ). Utilising the STEPS Centre’s Pathways Approach, it is argued that the failure of existing policy stems from its tendency to frame low carbon development as a problem of financing low carbon hardware transfer to developing countries. Alternative conceptual framings, building on insights from innovation studies and socio-technical transitions, applied to in-depth historical analysis of the successful adoption of off-grid solar in Kenya, suggest neither hardware financing policies nor the free market are likely to result in widespread uptake of low carbon energy technologies amongst poor countries and poor people therein. Instead, interventions should seek to act as “innovation system builders” with an explicit focus on building inclusive innovation systems via a range of specific capacity building approaches.
Dr David Ockwell is a Senior Lecturer in the Dept of Geography at the University of Sussex and co-convenes the STEPS Centre’s energy and climate domain. He’s also affiliated to the Sussex Energy Group and the Tyndall Centre. David’s research focuses on low carbon development with particular recent emphasis on the implications of international policy in terms of poverty and social justice.
Dr Rob Byrne is a Research Fellow in SPRU (Science and Technology Policy Research) at the University of Sussex. He co-convenes the STEPS Centre’s energy and climate domain with David and is also affiliated to the Sussex Energy Group and the Tyndall Centre. Rob’s research focuses on low carbon development with a particular empirical focus on off-grid solar electrical services in East Africa where he has worked both as a practitioner installing solar home systems as well as conducting academic research on this issue
John Urry: Innovating Low Carbon Mobility FuturesSTEPS Centre
A presentation given by Professor John Urry, Director, Centre for Mobilities Research, Lancaster University, at the IN-EAST conference, University of Duisberg-Essen, November 2013. The presentation draws on Prof. Urry's 2013 book, Societies Beyond Oil: Oil Dregs and Social Futures. It is also relevant for his project: Low Carbon Innovation in China - Prospects, Politics and Pratice. Find out more: http://steps-centre.org/project/low-carbon-china
Beyond hardware financing: Pro-poor pathways to low carbon developmentSTEPS Centre
A presentation by Dr David Ockwell and Dr Rob Byrne, given at UEA in October 2013, as part of the project Pro-poor, low carbon development: Improving low carbon energy access and development benefits in Least Developed Countries (LDC). Find out more: http://steps-centre.org/project/low_carbon_development/
Benjamin Sovacool "The Nordic Low-Carbon Transition: Implications and Insights for Researchers and Practitioners" Keynote Energy Cultures Conference 2016
The Producers/Consumer off-grid has arrived, there is a lack of regulation. Utility Business should change.
What if some Utilities in Western Europe, Japan, Australia and USA by 2020 lose about 50% of their demands; and obviously the revenues associated with those operations? All because the Prosumers...
Jochem 2002 Steps towards a 2000 Watt-Society Ex Summmorosini1952
Jochem E. et al (2002) Steps towards a 2000 Watt-Society. Developing a White Paper on Research & Development of Energy-Efficient Technologies - Executive Summary - 19 p.
Executive summary
In the coming decades, the threat and consequences of
climate change and of the re-concentration of crude oil
production in the Near East will compel industrialised nations
to make much more efficient use of energy. R&D that helps
realise energy efficiency potentials is likely to be regarded as
important in scientific, entrepreneurial, and political realms.
Demand for highly energy-efficient technologies will rise
steeply, and firms that can provide them will prosper. The
identification of energy-efficient technologies and related
energy conservation potentials undertaken in this pre-study is
a first step toward designing a R&D strategy that is consistent
with the need to evolve towards a 2000 Watt per capita society.
Reaching this level by 2050 implies reducing primary energy
use from 1200 to 460 PJ per year, despite a projected 65%
economic expansion.
Jochem, Eberhard; Favrat, Daniel; Hungerbühler, Konrad; Spreng, Daniel; von Rohr, Philippe-Rudolf; Wokaun, Alexander; Zimmermann, Mark
This document discusses the political challenges of expanding electricity grids to accommodate increasing renewable energy. It argues that electric utility companies, with vested interests in the status quo, often oppose grid expansions that facilitate greater renewable integration. This resistance can slow the energy transition. The document also examines grid and policy issues in Germany, Japan, China, and considers implications for New Zealand's renewable targets.
Managing Variability, Uncertainty and Flexibility in Power Grids with High Pe...Leonardo ENERGY
In this webinar, Dr. Lawrence Jones will discuss, Renewable Energy Integration, a new ground-breaking book which offers a distilled examination of the intricacies of integrating renewables into power grids and electricity markets. Through thirty-five chapters, this first of its kind volume offers informed perspectives from internationally renowned experts on the challenges to be met and solutions developed by operators around the world. The book focuses on the practical implementation of strategies and provides real-world context for theoretical underpinnings and the development of supporting policy frameworks. It lays out the key issues around the integration of renewables into power grids and markets, from the intricacies of operational and planning considerations to supporting regulatory and policy frameworks; provides global case studies that highlight the challenges of renewables integration and present field-tested solutions; illustrates enabling technologies to support the management of variability, uncertainty and flexibility in power grids. During webinar Dr. Jones will overview different parts and key themes in the book, with a special focus on the subject of demand response, and other solutions for increasing power systems flexibility, and the role of big data.
The document discusses emerging clean energy trends and business innovation. It outlines five "laws" of clean technology, including that clean tech can scale globally, developed countries may not need new nuclear or coal, small technologies will play a central role, the clean tech revolution will be dispersed across many regions, and energy transitions take decades. It also summarizes clean tech developments reshaping industries like smart grids, electric vehicles, green buildings, and waste management. Finally, it discusses the state of the clean tech industry in the U.S. and tools that can enable further clean energy innovation.
The document discusses appropriate technology and provides examples of renewable energy technologies that are considered appropriate. It describes how appropriate technology aims to solve social problems without negative consequences that outweigh the positive impacts. Renewable energy technologies discussed include biomass, hydropower, geothermal, wind, ocean, solar, and thermal solar power. Specific countries and examples of implementing these technologies are provided.
Kajsa Ellegard Energy Cultures Conference 2016 Keynote “On the success of energy conservation in the household sector– a matter of daily activities at individual, household and aggregate levels“
The 2012 Nigeria Alternative Energy Expo was hosted by the Ogun State Government from October 29-31. Over 25 corporate organizations and government departments from Nigeria and neighboring countries participated. The expo showcased innovations and solutions in solar, wind, clean technology, independent power production, bioenergy, waste-to-energy, and eco-awards. Governor Amosun opened the expo and emphasized the need for renewable energy to power Nigeria's economy. The expo provided networking opportunities between investors, developers, and government to discuss renewable energy projects and solutions.
The document summarizes a sustainable project in Kenya that uses appropriate technology to improve the economy, environment and society. The project is run by Solar Cookers International and involves teaching local communities to make solar cookers out of inexpensive, locally sourced materials like aluminum and plastic bags. These solar cookers help reduce reliance on wood for fuel by providing an alternative for cooking, and can also sterilize water. The project aims to benefit individuals and communities with technology that is affordable and doesn't harm the environment.
The Scott Institute for Energy Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University works to address energy challenges through research, education, and policy outreach. It is led by Director Jared Cohon and Co-Director Andrew Gellman. In the past year, the Scott Institute supported 9 seed grants totaling $460,420 and held its first Energy Week conference with over 720 participants. It focuses on strategic areas like building energy efficiency, energy cyber-physical systems, shale gas, and materials for energy technologies.
The document defines energy autarky as a region relying on its own energy resources to meet its energy needs. It provides definitions from other sources describing energy autarky as not importing substantial energy resources or developing a region's viability through transforming its energy subsystem. The document discusses motivations for pursuing energy autarky like loss of faith in centralized systems, desires for local solutions, and new opportunities from technology. It argues a transition is needed rather than just focusing on individual behaviors and consumption. Case studies of Gussing, Austria and Juhnede, Germany are presented as examples of communities achieving high levels of energy self-sufficiency.
Lindsey McCarthy “Energy (In)Efficiency: Exploring what Tenants expect and endure in the Private Rented Sector in England.” Energy Cultures Conference 2016
International Journal of Modern Engineering Research (IJMER) is Peer reviewed, online Journal. It serves as an international archival forum of scholarly research related to engineering and science education.
International Journal of Modern Engineering Research (IJMER) covers all the fields of engineering and science: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Thermodynamics, Structural Engineering, Control Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Fluid Mechanics, Nanotechnology, Simulators, Web-based Learning, Remote Laboratories, Engineering Design Methods, Education Research, Students' Satisfaction and Motivation, Global Projects, and Assessment…. And many more.
The Wilton E. Scott Institute for Energy Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University works to find solutions for energy challenges through research, education, and policy outreach. It is led by Directors Jared Cohon and Andrew Gellman and Associate Directors Deborah Stine and Anna Siefken. In 2015-2016, the Scott Institute supported 9 seed grants totaling $460,420 and held its first Energy Week conference with over 720 participants. It focuses on strategic areas like building energy efficiency, energy cyber-physical systems, shale gas, and materials for energy technologies.
This document provides an overview of Christopher Humphries' honors presentation on the role of institutions and policy frameworks in sustainable renewable energy development in South Africa. The presentation introduces the topic, outlines the rationale for studying renewable energy policy and institutions in South Africa. It then presents the research question and objectives. Key aspects of the theoretical framework, methodology, and timeline are summarized. Maps of South Africa's renewable energy potential and current energy production are also referenced.
This document discusses the risks and opportunities that climate change presents for super fund investments. It emphasizes that super funds should take a long-term view of carbon risk and opportunity as part of their fiduciary duty. Deep emissions cuts are needed to limit global warming, which will require a major economic transformation towards renewable energy and energy efficiency. Super funds can play a role by supporting low-carbon initiatives, engaging with companies, and advocating for effective climate policy. They must be prepared for potential surprises and not assume change will be gradual.
This document discusses energy scenarios for Sweden from 1970 to the present. It provides an overview of past Swedish energy scenarios and scenario methodologies. It then identifies 15 critical elements to examine in a new 2020+ scenario project, such as minimizing energy use, transforming transport energy, and adapting the electric grid for renewables. The document proposes using "negotiated modelling" and "negotiated simulation" approaches, which engage stakeholders more directly in the scenario development process. Finally, it outlines six comparative case studies on topics like electric vehicles and "prosumers" that will be used in an energy scenarios course between Sweden and Scotland.
Decarbonisation Futures: Innovation Pathways to Net Zero EmissionsIEA-ETSAP
The document summarizes a presentation by ClimateWorks Australia on innovation scenarios for achieving net zero emissions. It discusses ClimateWorks' mission to advise on accelerating the transition to net zero emissions through research and action. Three key drivers for decarbonization are identified: technology improvements, policy shifts, and societal changes. The presentation outlines ClimateWorks' scenario analysis approach, which models pathways to meet temperature goals based on varying levels of influence from the three drivers. Disruptive technologies across sectors that could significantly impact decarbonization pathways are also assessed.
Sciencewise Energy infrastructure webinarSciencewise
This webinar discussed public views on energy infrastructure and transforming the UK energy system based on social intelligence research. It introduced Sciencewise, an organization that helps policymakers conduct public dialogue on science and technology issues. Research findings showed that the public generally supports renewable energy and moving away from fossil fuels but views on nuclear energy are polarized. Values like environmental protection, fairness and reliability shape public perspectives. Meaningful change requires addressing these public values over the long term.
Overcoming Pakistan's current crisis through energy efficiency and renewable energy was the topic of a seminar supported by USAID and organized by Senator (R) Rukhsana Zuberi, chairperson of the Pakistan Engineering Council and head of the non-government organization, South Asian Women in Energy.
The Alliance's Alexander Filippov was among the experts advising Pakistani representatives on energy efficiency implementation.
Community energy initiatives are driven by a variety of motivations including concerns about the environment and future generations, community well-being, empowerment, and independence from large energy companies. They provide benefits like engaging the community, creating local jobs and income. However, they face barriers such as lack of funding, expertise, and unstable government policies. National policy can support local renewable initiatives through mechanisms like feed-in tariffs and quotas. Community energy also has transformative potential through skills sharing, social innovation, and challenging dominant views of the energy system.
The investment case for solar is strong, with several long-term bullish factors expected to drive double-digit industry growth for decades. Solar costs are falling rapidly due to technology advances and economies of scale, bringing grid parity in more markets. By 2050, solar PV and thermal could together become the world's largest electricity source. The solar industry has matured after consolidation and now features established leaders with competitive technology and lower costs.
This document provides an outline and preliminary findings from a study analyzing barriers to solar PV investment in China. The summary is:
The study examines literature on market, technical, regulatory, and social barriers to solar PV adoption in China. Preliminary findings show that after the 2008 financial crisis, China's solar panel manufacturers faced oversupply as global demand declined. In response, China invested billions to spur domestic solar demand and set a goal of 25 GW of solar capacity by 2020. However, barriers like high upfront costs, lack of knowledge, and inconsistent policies could hamper reaching this target unless addressed. The study aims to identify solutions to barriers and determine the right policy mix to encourage sustainable PV development in China.
The document discusses emerging clean energy trends and business innovation. It outlines five "laws" of clean technology, including that clean tech can scale globally, developed countries may not need new nuclear or coal, small technologies will play a central role, the clean tech revolution will be dispersed across many regions, and energy transitions take decades. It also summarizes clean tech developments reshaping industries like smart grids, electric vehicles, green buildings, and waste management. Finally, it discusses the state of the clean tech industry in the U.S. and tools that can enable further clean energy innovation.
The document discusses appropriate technology and provides examples of renewable energy technologies that are considered appropriate. It describes how appropriate technology aims to solve social problems without negative consequences that outweigh the positive impacts. Renewable energy technologies discussed include biomass, hydropower, geothermal, wind, ocean, solar, and thermal solar power. Specific countries and examples of implementing these technologies are provided.
Kajsa Ellegard Energy Cultures Conference 2016 Keynote “On the success of energy conservation in the household sector– a matter of daily activities at individual, household and aggregate levels“
The 2012 Nigeria Alternative Energy Expo was hosted by the Ogun State Government from October 29-31. Over 25 corporate organizations and government departments from Nigeria and neighboring countries participated. The expo showcased innovations and solutions in solar, wind, clean technology, independent power production, bioenergy, waste-to-energy, and eco-awards. Governor Amosun opened the expo and emphasized the need for renewable energy to power Nigeria's economy. The expo provided networking opportunities between investors, developers, and government to discuss renewable energy projects and solutions.
The document summarizes a sustainable project in Kenya that uses appropriate technology to improve the economy, environment and society. The project is run by Solar Cookers International and involves teaching local communities to make solar cookers out of inexpensive, locally sourced materials like aluminum and plastic bags. These solar cookers help reduce reliance on wood for fuel by providing an alternative for cooking, and can also sterilize water. The project aims to benefit individuals and communities with technology that is affordable and doesn't harm the environment.
The Scott Institute for Energy Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University works to address energy challenges through research, education, and policy outreach. It is led by Director Jared Cohon and Co-Director Andrew Gellman. In the past year, the Scott Institute supported 9 seed grants totaling $460,420 and held its first Energy Week conference with over 720 participants. It focuses on strategic areas like building energy efficiency, energy cyber-physical systems, shale gas, and materials for energy technologies.
The document defines energy autarky as a region relying on its own energy resources to meet its energy needs. It provides definitions from other sources describing energy autarky as not importing substantial energy resources or developing a region's viability through transforming its energy subsystem. The document discusses motivations for pursuing energy autarky like loss of faith in centralized systems, desires for local solutions, and new opportunities from technology. It argues a transition is needed rather than just focusing on individual behaviors and consumption. Case studies of Gussing, Austria and Juhnede, Germany are presented as examples of communities achieving high levels of energy self-sufficiency.
Lindsey McCarthy “Energy (In)Efficiency: Exploring what Tenants expect and endure in the Private Rented Sector in England.” Energy Cultures Conference 2016
International Journal of Modern Engineering Research (IJMER) is Peer reviewed, online Journal. It serves as an international archival forum of scholarly research related to engineering and science education.
International Journal of Modern Engineering Research (IJMER) covers all the fields of engineering and science: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Thermodynamics, Structural Engineering, Control Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Fluid Mechanics, Nanotechnology, Simulators, Web-based Learning, Remote Laboratories, Engineering Design Methods, Education Research, Students' Satisfaction and Motivation, Global Projects, and Assessment…. And many more.
The Wilton E. Scott Institute for Energy Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University works to find solutions for energy challenges through research, education, and policy outreach. It is led by Directors Jared Cohon and Andrew Gellman and Associate Directors Deborah Stine and Anna Siefken. In 2015-2016, the Scott Institute supported 9 seed grants totaling $460,420 and held its first Energy Week conference with over 720 participants. It focuses on strategic areas like building energy efficiency, energy cyber-physical systems, shale gas, and materials for energy technologies.
This document provides an overview of Christopher Humphries' honors presentation on the role of institutions and policy frameworks in sustainable renewable energy development in South Africa. The presentation introduces the topic, outlines the rationale for studying renewable energy policy and institutions in South Africa. It then presents the research question and objectives. Key aspects of the theoretical framework, methodology, and timeline are summarized. Maps of South Africa's renewable energy potential and current energy production are also referenced.
This document discusses the risks and opportunities that climate change presents for super fund investments. It emphasizes that super funds should take a long-term view of carbon risk and opportunity as part of their fiduciary duty. Deep emissions cuts are needed to limit global warming, which will require a major economic transformation towards renewable energy and energy efficiency. Super funds can play a role by supporting low-carbon initiatives, engaging with companies, and advocating for effective climate policy. They must be prepared for potential surprises and not assume change will be gradual.
This document discusses energy scenarios for Sweden from 1970 to the present. It provides an overview of past Swedish energy scenarios and scenario methodologies. It then identifies 15 critical elements to examine in a new 2020+ scenario project, such as minimizing energy use, transforming transport energy, and adapting the electric grid for renewables. The document proposes using "negotiated modelling" and "negotiated simulation" approaches, which engage stakeholders more directly in the scenario development process. Finally, it outlines six comparative case studies on topics like electric vehicles and "prosumers" that will be used in an energy scenarios course between Sweden and Scotland.
Decarbonisation Futures: Innovation Pathways to Net Zero EmissionsIEA-ETSAP
The document summarizes a presentation by ClimateWorks Australia on innovation scenarios for achieving net zero emissions. It discusses ClimateWorks' mission to advise on accelerating the transition to net zero emissions through research and action. Three key drivers for decarbonization are identified: technology improvements, policy shifts, and societal changes. The presentation outlines ClimateWorks' scenario analysis approach, which models pathways to meet temperature goals based on varying levels of influence from the three drivers. Disruptive technologies across sectors that could significantly impact decarbonization pathways are also assessed.
Sciencewise Energy infrastructure webinarSciencewise
This webinar discussed public views on energy infrastructure and transforming the UK energy system based on social intelligence research. It introduced Sciencewise, an organization that helps policymakers conduct public dialogue on science and technology issues. Research findings showed that the public generally supports renewable energy and moving away from fossil fuels but views on nuclear energy are polarized. Values like environmental protection, fairness and reliability shape public perspectives. Meaningful change requires addressing these public values over the long term.
Overcoming Pakistan's current crisis through energy efficiency and renewable energy was the topic of a seminar supported by USAID and organized by Senator (R) Rukhsana Zuberi, chairperson of the Pakistan Engineering Council and head of the non-government organization, South Asian Women in Energy.
The Alliance's Alexander Filippov was among the experts advising Pakistani representatives on energy efficiency implementation.
Community energy initiatives are driven by a variety of motivations including concerns about the environment and future generations, community well-being, empowerment, and independence from large energy companies. They provide benefits like engaging the community, creating local jobs and income. However, they face barriers such as lack of funding, expertise, and unstable government policies. National policy can support local renewable initiatives through mechanisms like feed-in tariffs and quotas. Community energy also has transformative potential through skills sharing, social innovation, and challenging dominant views of the energy system.
The investment case for solar is strong, with several long-term bullish factors expected to drive double-digit industry growth for decades. Solar costs are falling rapidly due to technology advances and economies of scale, bringing grid parity in more markets. By 2050, solar PV and thermal could together become the world's largest electricity source. The solar industry has matured after consolidation and now features established leaders with competitive technology and lower costs.
This document provides an outline and preliminary findings from a study analyzing barriers to solar PV investment in China. The summary is:
The study examines literature on market, technical, regulatory, and social barriers to solar PV adoption in China. Preliminary findings show that after the 2008 financial crisis, China's solar panel manufacturers faced oversupply as global demand declined. In response, China invested billions to spur domestic solar demand and set a goal of 25 GW of solar capacity by 2020. However, barriers like high upfront costs, lack of knowledge, and inconsistent policies could hamper reaching this target unless addressed. The study aims to identify solutions to barriers and determine the right policy mix to encourage sustainable PV development in China.
Interreg Europe ZEROCO2 regional policies report promoting energy efficiency ...Damien Gatt
The document summarizes policies and initiatives in Malta that promote energy efficiency and renewable energy. It discusses three key policies:
1) Feed-in tariffs and grants for photovoltaic installations that have supported significant growth in solar capacity but still require subsidies.
2) A grant scheme for solar water heaters that has seen declining participation due to cheaper photovoltaics and could be improved with revised incentives.
3) Grants for energy efficiency measures like double glazing and roof insulation that have had limited impact because they only cover some costs and do not prioritize the most effective solutions. The document suggests improvements like incentivizing packages of deep energy retrofitting measures tailored to building types.
The document discusses the long-term investment case for the solar sector. It notes that spending on solar installs will reach $3.7 trillion through 2040, with solar accounting for 35% of new electricity installs. The costs of solar have fallen significantly in recent years and continue to do so, with many markets now reaching grid parity without subsidies. The document also summarizes factors like the diversification of the industry across geographies and applications, the benefits of investing in the solar sector via an index or ETF, and the methodology of the MAC Solar Index.
Fueling the Future: Sustainable and Renewable Energy Opportunities and Solutions
Learning objective: Address the impact of renewable energy and their impacts
Energy Efficiency and the use of alternative energy solutions is a hot topic in our nation. Policy makers, educators, and STEM professionals are working in many areas to evaluate energy alternatives and develop innovative ways to be more efficient about how we fuel the future. What are new trends in this industry? What is our collective responsibility? How does policy and politics impact renewable energy? This seminar will answer your questions. Come join an expert panel as they share the vision of the future of sustainable and renewable energy.
At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to:
a. Examine the impact of sustainable and renewable energy
b. Explore recent developments and sources of energy available
c. Explore the impact of policy and law on renewable energy
d. Examine global perspectives on Energy efficiency
The fascinating future of energy practitioners v2Richard Chuchla
Energy and resource practitioners face growing uncertainty and complexity but unprecedented opportunity as they confront the future. This story underpins the premise of the multidisciplinary Energy and Earth Resources graduate program at the University of Texas.
Integrated approach for the introduction of renewable energies in remote site...Mar Martinez
Step by step case study development: integrating the key criteria for the techno-economic design of isolated renewable systems, as well as other key factors that intervene in their value chain as environmental, socio-political, legal and political criteria.
A Comprehensive Assessment Of Solar Photovoltaic Technologies Literature ReviewSean Flores
This document provides a literature review of methods used to assess solar photovoltaic technologies from multiple perspectives. It summarizes 178 research papers on this topic and groups them into three themes: observing gaps in perspectives considered and criteria used, reviewing multi-criteria decision modeling approaches, and reviewing solar photovoltaic technologies and systems. The literature analysis found that while technical and economic perspectives are most commonly considered, few studies comprehensively address all five social, technological, economic, environmental, and political perspectives (STEEP). It also found that decision models often use broad criteria that are difficult to apply in practice and no research specifically defines criteria for solar PV technologies.
The Nigeria Alternative Energy Expo is Nigeria’s leading Energy Expo. NAEE features line-up of local and international speakers, delegates and exhibitors, who will gather to debate a new energy future for Africa's most populous nation
1) The energy efficiency revolution in the UK is facing implementation problems like poor uptake of the Green Deal program and weaknesses in policy like the watering down of the ECO program.
2) There is too much focus on individual technical measures for energy efficiency and not enough systemic solutions that consider buildings and transport systems as interconnected. Systemic solutions could include district heating networks, integrated public transport systems, and deep building retrofits.
3) A broader conceptual approach is needed that moves beyond mainstream economics focusing just on firms and households to consider the social contexts and behaviors driving energy demand. Understanding the interactions between technology, social factors, and policy could help accelerate the energy efficiency revolution.
Synopsis:
The energy system has historically been characterised as “mature”, displaying small, incremental technological improvements and low levels of both public and private research intensity. However, over the past decade this situation has been changing, illustrated by significiant increases in public and private energy R&D expenditure across many countries in reaction to strengthening concerns around fossil fuel prices, climate change and energy security. These challenges have driven the search for alternative sources of energy, as well as more efficient ways of extracting and consuming fossil fuels. As support grows for energy innovation so too does the need to understand how energy innovation unfolds with a view to ensure that the vast public and private resources currently being committed to innovation in this sector are being deployed effectively.
In this context the talk outlines the Energy Strategy Fellowship’s current research project, which seeks to map out systems of energy innovation for a range of countries and technologies, measure the effectiveness of these different arrangements and compare different approaches with a view to learning lessons for successful energy research and innovation policy. Following a discussion of the drivers that have led to this renaissance in energy innovation and the project’s research objectives, the talk introduces the different technology and country case studies under examination, the methods employed and some of the innovation theory that underpins this research. Finally, the talk explores some emerging issues in the field of energy technology innovation the project engages with, such as the globalised nature of energy innovation, the role of the private sector and energy innovation outside ‘Western’ countries.
Biography:
Matthew has worked as a Research Associate within the RCUK Energy Strategy Fellowship team at Imperial College since 2012. His research examines the types of conditions responsible for accelerating the development and deployment of energy technologies with the potential to address critical challenges facing the global energy sector, such as climate change, energy security and fuel poverty. This work examines the development of a handful of promising, high-profile energy technologies across a variety of different countries worldwide to understand what makes for an effective energy innovation system. Prior to this he undertook his PhD thesis at the University of Leeds from 2009 exploring how the application of innovative energy business models could help to drive forward sustainability transitions.
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Frauke Urban: Low carbon innovation in China – Prospects, Politics and Practice
1. Low carbon innovation in China –
Prospects, Politics and Practice
Dr Frauke Urban
SOAS, University of London
Münster, 9th January 2015
2. Content
1. Background: China’s energy and climate setting
2. Project overview: Low carbon innovation in China
3. Case study: Solar energy
4. Conclusion
Project team at solar PV
plant in Shandong
province, China:
Wang Yu, Sam Geall,
Frauke Urban
3. 1. China’s energy & climate setting
• World’s most populous country, rapidly
growing economy
• World’s largest emitter of greenhouse gas
emissions
• World’s largest energy consumer, mainly
coal-dependent
• But also world’s largest investor in renewable
energy, including in hydropower, wind energy
and solar energy
• Increasing innovative capabilities for low
carbon energy & green economy in China
4. 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000
Japan
Russia
India
Euro zone countries
USA
China
Total CO2 emissions in Mt, data from World Bank 2013
6. Total energy use in Mt coal equivalents, data from World Bank 2013
0.00 1,000.00 2,000.00 3,000.00
Japan
Russia
India
Euro zone countries
USA
China
7. 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000
India
China
Euro zone countries
Japan
Russia
USA
Per capita energy use in kg, data from World Bank, 2013
8. 2. Project overview
• ESRC-funded project, 2013-2016, UK-China collaboration
• Main research question: Can Chinese low carbon innovation
help address the climate crisis?
• Project aims to investigate the social and political aspects
of low carbon innovation in China, rather than focusing on
technical change alone.
• Large literature on low carbon innovation in China, but much
of it downplays the social nature of technical change, and
questions of political change and power.
• Methods: interviews, focus group discussions, back-casting
• Theory: socio-technical transitions (Geels, 2002), innovation
systems (Berkhout et al. 2011), power analysis (Smith &
Stirling 2007)
9. 2. Project overview
• Contrasting cases of low carbon innovation:
high tech vs frugal tech
• 3 sectoral case studies: energy, transport,
agriculture
• Solar PV vs solar water heaters
• Electric cars vs electric 2-wheelers
• GM crops vs agro-ecological systems
11. 3. Case study: Solar energy
• Prospects solar PV:
• First silicon PV cell produced in USA in 1950s
• Combination of independent innovation and foreign technology,
domestic firms have built a “PV industry with Chinese characteristics”
(NDRC, 2012:4).
• Export-oriented: 95% of PV systems exported, mainly to Europe
(Germany) and USA (REN21, 2012; Fischer, 2014).
• Almost 60% of total global solar PV production from China, with an
export value of US$20.2 billion (NDRC, 2012; Sun et al, 2014).
• Domestic installed capacity (5%): 12 GW by 2013, target is to install 35
GW by end of 2015 (Sun et al, 2014), mainly ground-mounted large-
scale solar plants
• Historically expensive, but sharp decrease in prices in recent years:
1$/Watt
• Currently 6 of global top 10 solar PV firms are Chinese: Yingli Green
Energy; Trina Solar; Jinko Solar; Rene Solar; Hanwha SolarOne; JA
Solar.
12. 3. Case study: Solar energy
• Prospects solar WH:
• “Undiscussed protagonist” of a transition from fossil fuels to low
carbon energy (Annini et al, 2014:152).
• Domestic-oriented: China is the world’s largest solar hot water
market: more than 65% of world capacity (REN21, 2011), and
they are used by over 30 million households in China (CGTI,
2009).
• Leading innovation: evacuated tube design, designed at
Tsinghua University in 1990s: low cost, indigenous innovation
• Chinese firms hold 95% of the patents for core technologies of
solar water heaters worldwide (CGTI, 2009).
• Used predominantly on small-scale, in rural & urban areas, cost
a couple of hundred $ per SWH (IEA, 2014)
• Some 3,000 solar water heater firms, with Himin Solar and
several Shandong-based firms being the top sellers (Hu et al,
2012)
13. 3. Case study: Solar energy
• Politics and policies solar PV
• Supported by national government, such as embedded in NDRC
targets and Five Year Plans
• Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) drives forward R&D, with
an average annual investment of around 500 million yuan (around
US$81 million) (Wang, Shu and Lu, 2013)
• Local government provided free or low-cost loans, tax rebates,
research grants, cheap land (Chen, 2014), e.g. in Jiangsu and
Shandong provinces
• Feed-in-tariff, but grid connectivity challenges, mainly bureaucratic
hurdle
• Paradox of large-scale development of PV industry without
complementary policy support for creating a domestic market (Fischer,
2012)
• Twin challenge of export of PV systems, but import of purified silicon
(Chen, 2014), industry vulnerable to financial crisis & anti-dumping laws
(Mazzucato, 2013)
14. 3. Case study: Solar energy
• Politics and policies solar WH
• National-level support for R&D until the 1990s
• Relatively little stable national financing incentives after the
evacuated tube design was commercialised in 1998
• SWH targets mentioned in national policy documents in early
2000s, less afterwards e.g. 12th Five Year Plan focuses mainly on
solar PV
• Strong support at the local level from government and
bureaucrats: a mandatory requirement to install solar water
heaters as part of every new building in several provinces and
cities; purchase subsidies for SWH in rural areas (Hu et al,
2012).
• Growth of SWH industry linked to local employment for private
firms & SOEs, tax revenues for local governments, economic
growth and increased competitiveness for the province and/or
municipality
15. 3. Case study: Solar energy
• Practice solar PV
• Global financial crisis and trade disputes with the EU and US
made domestic market more attractive
• Rapid increase in installed solar PV capacity in China
• But…. Major challenges like “lack of enabling business and
knowledge environment; lack of adequate policy support; and
competing strategic policy considerations” (Fischer, 2012:132)
• Relatively high prices for individual buyers
• Difficulty of installing solar PV modules – many potential
consumers do not own or have access to roof space
• Connectivity with the grid is technically and bureaucratically
challenging, despite feed-in-tariff
• Within China PV is mainly used in ground-mounted, large-scale
installations, for which financial incentives are particularly crucial.
16. 3. Case study: Solar energy
• Practice solar SW
• Rapid increase of SWH, mainly popular in rural areas and small towns,
although some leading firms are increasingly attracting urban customers
• Solar water heaters meet the demand of millions of Chinese customers by
offering good quality, high performance, but at a low cost (Hu et al, 2012).
• Reduces pressure during peak load, contributes to energy security and
opportunities for economic growth at the local and provincial level (Li et al,
2011).
• Relaxed building codes enable setting up solar water heaters on roofs without
planning permission or other bureaucratic rules.
• Quality is key as low quality SWH can result in a range of adverse effects,
including water damage to buildings.
• Day-to-day practice may change as SWH can behave different to electric or
gas WH
• Evacuated tube solar water heater as a dominant, low cost Chinese
innovation that has already changed socio-technical preferences for water
heating for 30 million Chinese households (Annini, 2014).
17. 4. Conclusion
• China’s approach to low carbon innovation in solar energy is two-
fold:
• High tech, export-oriented, large-scale / industrial-scale, still
rather expensive, top-down, driven by central government,
national firms
• VS frugal tech, domestically-oriented, small-scale / individual-
scale, cheaper, bottom-up, driven by local government, local
firms & local demand
• The ‘hidden champion’ of solar water heaters is flourishing at the
provincial level, largely uninfluenced by central government,
domestically developed technology, driven by affordable prices
and large local demand
• Similar trends can be seen in transport & agriculture
• Alternative, decentralised, citizen-led, bottom-up low carbon
transitions for a green economy can be powerful tools to mitigate
climate change in China and beyond