This report was produced by Conor. It is a compilation of the input from the many conversations held on the day.
It includes output from the exercise that Chris started the day with - identifying what issues people have with our energy system and their administration.
Table of Contents
Renewable Energy
– Production, Distribution & Conservation
Introduction 3
Flagging the Issues 4
Solutions to the Issues 4
Technologies 5
Duncan Stewarts Speech 6
Conservation 6
Distribution 7
Motivation 9
The mining industry is facing increasing opposition and scrutiny that has stalled an estimated $25 billion worth of projects globally. Anglo American CEO Mark Cutifani launched the Mining Company of the Future initiative to inspire the industry to adopt a new approach to securing its social license to operate through partnerships with stakeholders. The initiative brings together mining companies and groups affected by mining like indigenous communities, NGOs, and religious organizations to have open discussions and change the dialogue around mining. The goal is for the industry to become more integrated, proactive development partners that deliver economic, environmental and social benefits to communities.
The document discusses seeking comprehensive public participation in Ireland's national energy transition plans through climate dialogue. It outlines the history of the Transition and People's Energy Charter movements in Ireland which brought together various climate, community, and industry groups starting in 2013 to develop shared principles for energy policy. It describes the Charter's involvement in policy consultations over two years, including hosting workshops and making submissions. The groups had one consistent shared demand of comprehensive public participation in national plans. In late 2015, a new national energy policy was finally launched that included establishing a national energy forum.
This document summarizes an upcoming conference on Aboriginal energy to be held on December 9-10, 2015 at the Eaton Chelsea Hotel in Toronto, Ontario. The conference will focus on integrating traditional knowledge into sustainability projects, the role of Aboriginal development corporations in energy development, and strategies for financing major energy projects in First Nations communities. Speakers will address renewable energy opportunities, consulting with Indigenous communities, training programs, and forming partnerships for energy projects. The event aims to provide knowledge on economic development through a community, policy, and technology lens.
The bipartisan Energy Savings Performance Caucus was formed in 2011 to promote the use of Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) and Utility Energy Service Contracts (UESCs) by federal agencies. These contracts allow private firms to implement energy efficiency upgrades with repayment coming from a portion of the savings over 25 years. While the caucus shows bipartisan support for energy efficiency, its goals face challenges due to Republican opposition to new spending and sequestration cuts impacting relevant programs. The caucus aims to present the contracts as a cost-effective job creation strategy, but questions remain around their true long-term costs and oversight of contractors.
We’ve now passed the year anniversary of both The CLEEN Project and the Biden administration! In the attached letter, we reflect upon CLEEN’s impact and the progress made over the year, and more importantly, say thank you.
The one-year report of The CLEEN Project summarizes that in its first year it: helped source over 300 climate policy ideas from experts; established an advisory board of over 80 leaders; saw over 50 ideas implemented by the Biden administration through CLEEN champions now in government; and had its database of ideas visited over 10,000 times. The CLEEN Project was founded as a temporary initiative to help the new administration access climate policy ideas, and its database will remain available through 2024 while completed its initial mission.
The document discusses the bipartisan Energy Savings Performance Caucus formed in 2011 to promote energy savings performance contracts (ESPC) and utility energy service contracts (UESC) that could save billions but saw little use. Members from both parties supported these contracts as a way to save money and create jobs through energy efficiency projects, though there was some opposition from those seeing it as linked to climate change. Ensuring funding for these programs in the political budget process remained a challenge.
Columbia University & Gaia HCC Green Economy Leadership ConferenceDawnDzurilla
The document announces a green economy leadership conference to be held on April 17, 2009 at Columbia University. It will include panels on renewable energy executives, energy policy, independent research, banking, venture capital, and human capital factors considered by venture capitalists. The keynote speaker will be John Geesman, co-chair of the American Council on Renewable Energy. The event is free and open to students, professionals, and others interested in the green economy.
The mining industry is facing increasing opposition and scrutiny that has stalled an estimated $25 billion worth of projects globally. Anglo American CEO Mark Cutifani launched the Mining Company of the Future initiative to inspire the industry to adopt a new approach to securing its social license to operate through partnerships with stakeholders. The initiative brings together mining companies and groups affected by mining like indigenous communities, NGOs, and religious organizations to have open discussions and change the dialogue around mining. The goal is for the industry to become more integrated, proactive development partners that deliver economic, environmental and social benefits to communities.
The document discusses seeking comprehensive public participation in Ireland's national energy transition plans through climate dialogue. It outlines the history of the Transition and People's Energy Charter movements in Ireland which brought together various climate, community, and industry groups starting in 2013 to develop shared principles for energy policy. It describes the Charter's involvement in policy consultations over two years, including hosting workshops and making submissions. The groups had one consistent shared demand of comprehensive public participation in national plans. In late 2015, a new national energy policy was finally launched that included establishing a national energy forum.
This document summarizes an upcoming conference on Aboriginal energy to be held on December 9-10, 2015 at the Eaton Chelsea Hotel in Toronto, Ontario. The conference will focus on integrating traditional knowledge into sustainability projects, the role of Aboriginal development corporations in energy development, and strategies for financing major energy projects in First Nations communities. Speakers will address renewable energy opportunities, consulting with Indigenous communities, training programs, and forming partnerships for energy projects. The event aims to provide knowledge on economic development through a community, policy, and technology lens.
The bipartisan Energy Savings Performance Caucus was formed in 2011 to promote the use of Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) and Utility Energy Service Contracts (UESCs) by federal agencies. These contracts allow private firms to implement energy efficiency upgrades with repayment coming from a portion of the savings over 25 years. While the caucus shows bipartisan support for energy efficiency, its goals face challenges due to Republican opposition to new spending and sequestration cuts impacting relevant programs. The caucus aims to present the contracts as a cost-effective job creation strategy, but questions remain around their true long-term costs and oversight of contractors.
We’ve now passed the year anniversary of both The CLEEN Project and the Biden administration! In the attached letter, we reflect upon CLEEN’s impact and the progress made over the year, and more importantly, say thank you.
The one-year report of The CLEEN Project summarizes that in its first year it: helped source over 300 climate policy ideas from experts; established an advisory board of over 80 leaders; saw over 50 ideas implemented by the Biden administration through CLEEN champions now in government; and had its database of ideas visited over 10,000 times. The CLEEN Project was founded as a temporary initiative to help the new administration access climate policy ideas, and its database will remain available through 2024 while completed its initial mission.
The document discusses the bipartisan Energy Savings Performance Caucus formed in 2011 to promote energy savings performance contracts (ESPC) and utility energy service contracts (UESC) that could save billions but saw little use. Members from both parties supported these contracts as a way to save money and create jobs through energy efficiency projects, though there was some opposition from those seeing it as linked to climate change. Ensuring funding for these programs in the political budget process remained a challenge.
Columbia University & Gaia HCC Green Economy Leadership ConferenceDawnDzurilla
The document announces a green economy leadership conference to be held on April 17, 2009 at Columbia University. It will include panels on renewable energy executives, energy policy, independent research, banking, venture capital, and human capital factors considered by venture capitalists. The keynote speaker will be John Geesman, co-chair of the American Council on Renewable Energy. The event is free and open to students, professionals, and others interested in the green economy.
Public-Private Roundtables at the Fourth Clean Energy MinisterialValerie Riedel
This report summarizes the key outcomes of the six industry-government discussions held as part of the fourth Clean Energy Ministerial, in 2014. Energetics supported our client (The U.S. Department of Energy) in preparing this report, providing substantive editing, graphic design, photo selection, and content planning assistance.
Energy Efficiency and Economic Recovery: Stimulus Funding OpportunitiesAlliance To Save Energy
February 2. 2009 -- Policy makers and others have come to understand the power of energy efficiency implementation as an economic development tool and stimulus. The result is likely billions in clean energy investments by the federal government that will be utilized by state and local governments, non-profit energy organizations, and others. In her presentation, Kateri focused on the efforts of the Alliance to Save Energy and others to grow energy efficiency implementation programs – buildings, products, and services – and deliver greater economic vitality to the nation.
A Challenge and an Opportunity for the Next 4 Years
Turning the DOE into Something That Matters
White & Case Energy Forum
By Larry Kellerman
November 8, 2012
This document summarizes the agenda for the 2014 EGI Global Partner Retreat hosted in Bangkok, Thailand from November 22-24. It provides an overview of the sessions to be held over the 3 day retreat, including country-led presentations on key energy governance challenges, discussions on future grid research, sharing of advocacy approaches, and discussions on the future of EGI. A participant list is also included.
The document provides information about the Nigeria Alternative Energy Expo (NAEE) which is Nigeria's largest sustainable energy event. Some key details:
- NAEE is an annual conference that brings together local and international stakeholders in the sustainable energy industry to discuss strategies for promoting renewable energy. The 7th edition will take place from October 18-20, 2017 in Abuja.
- The event is organized by the Sustainable Energy Practitioner Association Nigeria and supported by government ministries, organizations, and international partners. It aims to raise awareness of opportunities and barriers to sustainable energy development in Nigeria.
- The 2017 conference will address topics like renewable energy potentials, private sector investment, greenhouse gas emissions data, and the role
Sustainability is a key driver of many developments world-wide,
and quite notably for power systems, t, thanks to the December
2015 Paris Agreement on climate protection with its actionable
worldwide consensus and the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in September 2015.
CIGRE, as the ‘global expert community for electric power
systems’, must and wants to support is engaged in supporting
the SDGs, the Paris Agreement, and sustainability in general, and
pursues sustainable electricity for all.
This Reference Paper describes how CIGRE contributes
to global sustainability and the SDGs, partly by adhering
to sustainable organizational practices itself, but even more
importantly by supporting many SDGs through its global work
related to energy, emissions, and climate change. This paper thus
lays the foundation to focus CIGRE’s work more systematically
on sustainability; and for the Technical Council to include
further aspects of sustainability in the next strategic plan on
which CIGRE’s work should focus.
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.
Promoting Renewable Energy in Community Buy-Out Areas in the Highlands & Isla...Oxfam GB
This document summarizes Mike Danson's presentation on community ownership of land and renewable energy development in Scotland. Some key points include:
- Community buyouts of land through the Community Right to Buy program has allowed communities to own and manage land, leading to new economic opportunities.
- Renewable energy development is a major focus, with a goal of sourcing 80% of Scotland's electricity from renewables by 2020.
- Community energy projects provide benefits like increased skills and jobs, more self-sufficient energy, and potential cost savings for residents.
- Successful community trusts demonstrate long-term planning, entrepreneurship including tourism, forestry, and emphasis on social capital.
The document summarizes recent events from the World Energy Council, including their 2018 World Energy Week conference in Milan. It discusses key topics from the conference such as innovation, technologies, resilience, and sustainability in the energy sector. It also announces upcoming energy events around the world and calls for applicants for the 2019 SET Award, which recognizes innovators in the energy transition.
The Alliance to Save Energy celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2012 and continued its work promoting energy efficiency through policy advocacy, consumer outreach programs, and projects. Some of its major accomplishments included launching an energy efficiency policy commission, hosting energy efficiency conferences that brought together international leaders, growing its social media presence, and implementing programs that saved over 200 million kilowatt-hours in schools and colleges. Financially, the Alliance received over $20 million in revenue in 2012 but also saw expenses rise, resulting in a change in net assets of negative $2.5 million.
World Energy Council: Tracking Energy Transition Innovation- 2017Energy for One World
World Energy Council report- on innovation, year 2017
Views are by the Council, and not necessarily the views of the EFOW practice: how to drive change - and what deserves our time, organisation and investments.
Exploring energy futures for remote Australian communitiesNinti_One
This document discusses a CSIRO project exploring innovative energy practices for remote Australian communities. It examines how people currently use and save energy in remote areas, how these practices may be affected by different future scenarios, and what implications this has for policy. The project involves participatory workshops to develop a collaborative understanding of how alternative energy systems could impact livability. It considers key uncertainties around social, economic, technological and policy drivers that may influence future energy solutions for remote housing, enterprises and transportation. Scenario planning is proposed to explore how different visions and practices may play out under a range of futures. The implications will inform sustainable energy strategies for remote Australian settlements.
Professor John Fitzgerald, TCD, ERSI and Chair of Advisory Council on Climate Change, was the invited plenary speaker and spoke about transitioning to a low carbon Irish economy at the 2016 Whitaker Institute Research Day held at NUI Galway on 13th April.
The Massachusetts Zero Net Energy Buildings Task Force developed recommendations to transform the state's building sector and create a pathway toward zero net energy buildings by 2030. Their recommendations include establishing energy performance standards for new construction and existing buildings, measuring and reporting actual energy use, designing incentives to reduce financial and regulatory barriers, and education and training programs. Collectively, these recommendations aim to dramatically reduce building energy use and carbon emissions through a comprehensive set of policies, programs, and mandates.
Overview of the Conference by Josefina Maestu, director of UN-Water Decade Programme on Advocacy and Communication (UNW-DPAC). 2014 UN-Water Annual International Zaragoza Conference. Preparing for World Water Day 2014: Partnerships for improving water and energy access, efficiency and sustainability. 13-16 January 2014
A flagship Maori-community owned Renewable Energy Project in New ZealandKaramea Insley
A Maori community innovative partnership and the start of a journey of both local and national significance that brings together some of the best knowledge in New Zealand the world to design and build a new community owned renewable energy enterprise.
The Hikurangi Foundation and the Kaitiakitanga Project Team have sought to partner with you for the very real purpose of designing a pilot community-owned energy project that can be made a reality within an immediate timeframe.
Community energy is a catchall phrase given to renewable energy generation projects where the means of generation are owned and managed locally.
Community energy delivers multiple benefits including: energy literacy, active local governance, household-linked activities leading to efficiency and health improvements, new jobs, and long-term income streams that can drive local economic development. Community energy is moving to scale in many countries around the world, creating diverse organizational structures and using different technologies along the way.
As an example, the German town of Wildpolsreid (with a population of 2,700) produces 321% of their own energy needs and sells the excess to yield an income of US$5.7 million a year.
The village’s initiative first started in 1997 when the village council decided that it should build new industries, keep initiatives local, bring in new revenue, and not create debt.
Over the past 14 years, the community has equipped nine new community buildings with solar panels, built five bio-gas digesters and installed seven windmills with two more on the way.
In the village itself, 190 private households have solar panels while the district also benefits from three small hydro power plants, ecological flood control, and a natural waste water system.
This project is a flagship project for not only Maori communities but indeed for New Zealand.
The document presents an energy scenario from Ecofys that demonstrates it is technically possible to achieve almost 100% renewable energy by 2050. This scenario raises significant challenges around energy conservation, electrification, equity, land and sea use, lifestyle, finance, and innovation that must be addressed. Making the transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050 is one of the most important tasks to ensure energy for future generations in a sustainable way.
This document summarizes Theresa O'Donohoe's efforts from 2013-2015 to promote comprehensive public participation in Ireland's national energy transition plans. It details how she helped organize the People's Energy Charter with over 30 supporting organizations to push for community involvement in renewable energy development. It also describes meetings with government officials and participation in Ireland's national energy policy consultation process, though the final policy did not fully incorporate public participation as sought by the Charter.
2014 10th Feb People's Charter on Renewable ENergy notesLaoisLeaf
(1) The People's Charter for Renewable Energy (PCRE) held a meeting to discuss next steps after an event in Portlaoise. They discussed establishing a charter written by citizens to influence national energy policy.
(2) Attendees debated the name of the group and settled on 'People's Charter for Energy' or 'People's Energy Charter.' They also identified 7 parameters for the charter around community involvement, renewable energy, climate change, and more.
(3) The group agreed to engage with the government as it develops a green paper on energy policy and to write to relevant committees. They will organize as a network to expand participation in shaping energy policy.
This document discusses the need for social innovation to support the transition to a low-carbon society. It argues that technological changes will not be enough without public support, which requires overcoming fears of change through greater engagement. Examples are given of social innovations like online campaigns and community energy projects that have helped increase participation. The document advocates learning from such cases, planning more support for social innovation, and engaging diverse groups to build a more just and inclusive low-carbon future.
Public-Private Roundtables at the Fourth Clean Energy MinisterialValerie Riedel
This report summarizes the key outcomes of the six industry-government discussions held as part of the fourth Clean Energy Ministerial, in 2014. Energetics supported our client (The U.S. Department of Energy) in preparing this report, providing substantive editing, graphic design, photo selection, and content planning assistance.
Energy Efficiency and Economic Recovery: Stimulus Funding OpportunitiesAlliance To Save Energy
February 2. 2009 -- Policy makers and others have come to understand the power of energy efficiency implementation as an economic development tool and stimulus. The result is likely billions in clean energy investments by the federal government that will be utilized by state and local governments, non-profit energy organizations, and others. In her presentation, Kateri focused on the efforts of the Alliance to Save Energy and others to grow energy efficiency implementation programs – buildings, products, and services – and deliver greater economic vitality to the nation.
A Challenge and an Opportunity for the Next 4 Years
Turning the DOE into Something That Matters
White & Case Energy Forum
By Larry Kellerman
November 8, 2012
This document summarizes the agenda for the 2014 EGI Global Partner Retreat hosted in Bangkok, Thailand from November 22-24. It provides an overview of the sessions to be held over the 3 day retreat, including country-led presentations on key energy governance challenges, discussions on future grid research, sharing of advocacy approaches, and discussions on the future of EGI. A participant list is also included.
The document provides information about the Nigeria Alternative Energy Expo (NAEE) which is Nigeria's largest sustainable energy event. Some key details:
- NAEE is an annual conference that brings together local and international stakeholders in the sustainable energy industry to discuss strategies for promoting renewable energy. The 7th edition will take place from October 18-20, 2017 in Abuja.
- The event is organized by the Sustainable Energy Practitioner Association Nigeria and supported by government ministries, organizations, and international partners. It aims to raise awareness of opportunities and barriers to sustainable energy development in Nigeria.
- The 2017 conference will address topics like renewable energy potentials, private sector investment, greenhouse gas emissions data, and the role
Sustainability is a key driver of many developments world-wide,
and quite notably for power systems, t, thanks to the December
2015 Paris Agreement on climate protection with its actionable
worldwide consensus and the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in September 2015.
CIGRE, as the ‘global expert community for electric power
systems’, must and wants to support is engaged in supporting
the SDGs, the Paris Agreement, and sustainability in general, and
pursues sustainable electricity for all.
This Reference Paper describes how CIGRE contributes
to global sustainability and the SDGs, partly by adhering
to sustainable organizational practices itself, but even more
importantly by supporting many SDGs through its global work
related to energy, emissions, and climate change. This paper thus
lays the foundation to focus CIGRE’s work more systematically
on sustainability; and for the Technical Council to include
further aspects of sustainability in the next strategic plan on
which CIGRE’s work should focus.
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.
Promoting Renewable Energy in Community Buy-Out Areas in the Highlands & Isla...Oxfam GB
This document summarizes Mike Danson's presentation on community ownership of land and renewable energy development in Scotland. Some key points include:
- Community buyouts of land through the Community Right to Buy program has allowed communities to own and manage land, leading to new economic opportunities.
- Renewable energy development is a major focus, with a goal of sourcing 80% of Scotland's electricity from renewables by 2020.
- Community energy projects provide benefits like increased skills and jobs, more self-sufficient energy, and potential cost savings for residents.
- Successful community trusts demonstrate long-term planning, entrepreneurship including tourism, forestry, and emphasis on social capital.
The document summarizes recent events from the World Energy Council, including their 2018 World Energy Week conference in Milan. It discusses key topics from the conference such as innovation, technologies, resilience, and sustainability in the energy sector. It also announces upcoming energy events around the world and calls for applicants for the 2019 SET Award, which recognizes innovators in the energy transition.
The Alliance to Save Energy celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2012 and continued its work promoting energy efficiency through policy advocacy, consumer outreach programs, and projects. Some of its major accomplishments included launching an energy efficiency policy commission, hosting energy efficiency conferences that brought together international leaders, growing its social media presence, and implementing programs that saved over 200 million kilowatt-hours in schools and colleges. Financially, the Alliance received over $20 million in revenue in 2012 but also saw expenses rise, resulting in a change in net assets of negative $2.5 million.
World Energy Council: Tracking Energy Transition Innovation- 2017Energy for One World
World Energy Council report- on innovation, year 2017
Views are by the Council, and not necessarily the views of the EFOW practice: how to drive change - and what deserves our time, organisation and investments.
Exploring energy futures for remote Australian communitiesNinti_One
This document discusses a CSIRO project exploring innovative energy practices for remote Australian communities. It examines how people currently use and save energy in remote areas, how these practices may be affected by different future scenarios, and what implications this has for policy. The project involves participatory workshops to develop a collaborative understanding of how alternative energy systems could impact livability. It considers key uncertainties around social, economic, technological and policy drivers that may influence future energy solutions for remote housing, enterprises and transportation. Scenario planning is proposed to explore how different visions and practices may play out under a range of futures. The implications will inform sustainable energy strategies for remote Australian settlements.
Professor John Fitzgerald, TCD, ERSI and Chair of Advisory Council on Climate Change, was the invited plenary speaker and spoke about transitioning to a low carbon Irish economy at the 2016 Whitaker Institute Research Day held at NUI Galway on 13th April.
The Massachusetts Zero Net Energy Buildings Task Force developed recommendations to transform the state's building sector and create a pathway toward zero net energy buildings by 2030. Their recommendations include establishing energy performance standards for new construction and existing buildings, measuring and reporting actual energy use, designing incentives to reduce financial and regulatory barriers, and education and training programs. Collectively, these recommendations aim to dramatically reduce building energy use and carbon emissions through a comprehensive set of policies, programs, and mandates.
Overview of the Conference by Josefina Maestu, director of UN-Water Decade Programme on Advocacy and Communication (UNW-DPAC). 2014 UN-Water Annual International Zaragoza Conference. Preparing for World Water Day 2014: Partnerships for improving water and energy access, efficiency and sustainability. 13-16 January 2014
A flagship Maori-community owned Renewable Energy Project in New ZealandKaramea Insley
A Maori community innovative partnership and the start of a journey of both local and national significance that brings together some of the best knowledge in New Zealand the world to design and build a new community owned renewable energy enterprise.
The Hikurangi Foundation and the Kaitiakitanga Project Team have sought to partner with you for the very real purpose of designing a pilot community-owned energy project that can be made a reality within an immediate timeframe.
Community energy is a catchall phrase given to renewable energy generation projects where the means of generation are owned and managed locally.
Community energy delivers multiple benefits including: energy literacy, active local governance, household-linked activities leading to efficiency and health improvements, new jobs, and long-term income streams that can drive local economic development. Community energy is moving to scale in many countries around the world, creating diverse organizational structures and using different technologies along the way.
As an example, the German town of Wildpolsreid (with a population of 2,700) produces 321% of their own energy needs and sells the excess to yield an income of US$5.7 million a year.
The village’s initiative first started in 1997 when the village council decided that it should build new industries, keep initiatives local, bring in new revenue, and not create debt.
Over the past 14 years, the community has equipped nine new community buildings with solar panels, built five bio-gas digesters and installed seven windmills with two more on the way.
In the village itself, 190 private households have solar panels while the district also benefits from three small hydro power plants, ecological flood control, and a natural waste water system.
This project is a flagship project for not only Maori communities but indeed for New Zealand.
The document presents an energy scenario from Ecofys that demonstrates it is technically possible to achieve almost 100% renewable energy by 2050. This scenario raises significant challenges around energy conservation, electrification, equity, land and sea use, lifestyle, finance, and innovation that must be addressed. Making the transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050 is one of the most important tasks to ensure energy for future generations in a sustainable way.
This document summarizes Theresa O'Donohoe's efforts from 2013-2015 to promote comprehensive public participation in Ireland's national energy transition plans. It details how she helped organize the People's Energy Charter with over 30 supporting organizations to push for community involvement in renewable energy development. It also describes meetings with government officials and participation in Ireland's national energy policy consultation process, though the final policy did not fully incorporate public participation as sought by the Charter.
2014 10th Feb People's Charter on Renewable ENergy notesLaoisLeaf
(1) The People's Charter for Renewable Energy (PCRE) held a meeting to discuss next steps after an event in Portlaoise. They discussed establishing a charter written by citizens to influence national energy policy.
(2) Attendees debated the name of the group and settled on 'People's Charter for Energy' or 'People's Energy Charter.' They also identified 7 parameters for the charter around community involvement, renewable energy, climate change, and more.
(3) The group agreed to engage with the government as it develops a green paper on energy policy and to write to relevant committees. They will organize as a network to expand participation in shaping energy policy.
This document discusses the need for social innovation to support the transition to a low-carbon society. It argues that technological changes will not be enough without public support, which requires overcoming fears of change through greater engagement. Examples are given of social innovations like online campaigns and community energy projects that have helped increase participation. The document advocates learning from such cases, planning more support for social innovation, and engaging diverse groups to build a more just and inclusive low-carbon future.
Theresa O'Donohoe submits a proposal to the Citizens Assembly on tackling climate change in Ireland. She argues that public participation must be comprehensive to comply with the Aarhus Convention and avoid legal challenges. She proposes appointing local Climate and Energy Transition Coordinators to work with Public Participation Networks and establish energy forums in each local authority area to facilitate participation. Her proposal aims to raise awareness of climate issues and ensure Ireland's energy transition plan allows for effective public input.
Recap on 'Setting the Scene' by Josefina Maestu, director of UNW-DPAC, at 2014 UN-Water Annual International Zaragoza Conference. Preparing for World Water Day 2014: Partnerships for improving water and energy access, efficiency and sustainability. 13-16 January 2014
This document summarizes an interview with a student who took an online course on climate change hosted by the World Bank. The student works for an NGO in Bolivia advising on renewable energy. Some key points:
- The student said the course was extremely informative and helped understand climate impacts and solutions. It covered topics like impacts of a 4°C warmer world and ways to reduce emissions.
- Bolivia is already experiencing more extreme flooding due to earlier rains from climate change. Transitioning to renewable energy is important to address this issue.
- More policy support is needed for renewable energy in Bolivia, including incentives for individual solar power generation and changing the energy matrix away from fossil fuels.
-
The document proposes a "Sustainable Stadia in Sustainable Communities" project that would partner sports clubs with local communities to improve home energy efficiency, reduce fuel poverty, and promote renewable energy and job training. Sports clubs could help engage communities facing fuel poverty and health issues from inefficient housing. The project aims to strengthen communities and clubs through more sustainable energy outcomes.
Recap from day 2 and overview of day 3, by Josefina Maestu, director UNW-DPAC, at 2014 UN-Water Annual International Zaragoza Conference. Preparing for World Water Day 2014: Partnerships for improving water and energy access, efficiency and sustainability. 13-16 January 2014.
The document discusses community energy as a major driver of change in the global energy ecosystem. It summarizes interviews conducted with 18 executives representing communities or utilities on the topic of community energy. Key findings from the interviews include that economic benefit is a primary objective for communities; ease, integration and scale matter; communities must engage all stakeholders; competence is growing but communities are not experts; regulation hampers progress; and information is essential. The interviews provide insights into stakeholder perspectives on community energy trends, challenges, success factors and the future impact on energy systems.
End of project results presentation given to stakeholders in Nidderdale AONB, from the RELU-funded Sustainable Uplands project. Includes new data on the relationship between burning, heather cover and water quality.
Session 3 - National Energy Research and Policy Conference 2022SustainableEnergyAut
This document discusses engaging communities in offshore wind projects. It emphasizes the importance of working with communities through fair and meaningful engagement to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. It discusses how recognizing affected communities, ensuring just procedures, and distributing benefits fairly can help achieve energy justice. Key aspects include identifying communities in relation to impacts and benefits, engaging communities early through co-production and inclusivity, and feeding back results while making changes based on input. Distributing benefits widely based on ability, rather than assuming monetary benefits can "buy" support, is also discussed as important for a just transition to clean energy.
The document discusses community renewable energy projects in the global south, specifically comparing the model of The Yansa Group to traditional cooperative models. The Yansa Group works with indigenous communities to develop wind power projects that are owned and controlled locally while also accessing global financing. This allows for full community ownership and benefits compared to traditional cooperatives, which may restrict financial benefits only to those able to invest. The Yansa Group aims to create community ownership through a democratic community development trust that reinvests in the local area.
End of project presentation given at Castleton, Peak District National Park, 2nd June 2010, describing outputs from the RELU funded Sustainable Uplands project
Professor and 2009 Nobel Laureate Elinor Ostrom kindly let us upload her key-note presentation, which took place during the "Climate Change Policy" Conference at the UNAM University in Mexico City the 8th of May.
Presentation of Dr. Helen Mendoza, Philippine Network for Climaet Change, on "Advocacy" during the UP Manila Conference on Global Climate Change, October 22-23, 2009, Pearl Garden Hotel, Manila.
Rural Climate Dialogues: Developing a Citizen-Based Response nado-web
The document summarizes the Rural Climate Dialogues project, which aims to engage rural communities in deliberations about climate change impacts and solutions. The project facilitates Citizens' Juries in rural communities to identify key climate challenges and opportunities. It describes the process used, including pre-jury stakeholder engagement, a 3-day jury with expert presentations and deliberations, and post-jury coordination of recommendations. It summarizes pilot projects in Morris, MN, Grand Rapids, MN, and Winona, MN, outlining the top concerns, opportunities, and actions identified by each community. It also provides examples of follow-up actions and outcomes in the communities.
This document is a letter from the Climate Leadership Panel to the Minister of Environment and Parks in Alberta. It provides an executive summary of the panel's climate leadership report and process. The panel engaged extensively with Albertans through public sessions, technical sessions, and online submissions to inform their policy recommendations. They heard a diversity of perspectives, including support for ambitious climate action and concerns about economic impacts. The panel believes their report provides effective policy options to reduce emissions and position Alberta as a climate leader at the national and international level.
For the global sustainability community,
the most effective catalyst of change
has long been seen as the informed
self-interest of the mainstream financial
community: if banks and investors
could be convinced of the proximity of
environmental risk or societal impacts,
then it has been assumed that capital
diverted from ‘unsustainable’ practices
would render all other interventions
unnecessary. In practice though, the
sustainability community has found
the financial sector a hard nut to crack.
Although recent years have seen a
substantial increase in the integration of
environmental, social and governance
(ESG) data forming part of investment
analysis, the continued emphasis on shortterm
results and incentives has pushed
longer-term environmental risks, such as
climate change, outside of the boundary
of risks contemplated by mainstream
analysts. That is, until recently.
This document discusses deep decarbonization pathways to keep global warming below 2°C. It defines deep decarbonization as transforming the energy economy consistent with significant greenhouse gas reductions. The key highlights are that deep decarbonization requires electrification, energy efficiency, and decarbonizing electricity generation. It also requires action across multiple sectors and offers flexibility in technology choices. While requiring upfront investment, analyses show the total energy system costs of a decarbonized system in 2050 can be similar to today's costs as a percentage of GDP.
Similar to People's Charter on Renewable Energy report (20)
Portlaoise Men's Shed entry to LEAF Green Community Awards 2014LaoisLeaf
The Portlaoise Men's Shed collaborated with numerous local organizations in 2014 on various community projects, including building water barrels, hive stocks, and nesting boxes; conducting health checks and workshops; setting up a community garden; and participating in cultural events. They also undertook advocacy work, participated in studies on men's sheds, and planned additional collaborative conservation and education projects for 2015.
Irish Wildlife Trust Laois/Offaly branch entry to leaf awards 2014LaoisLeaf
The Irish Wildlife Trust Laois-Offaly Branch was formed in 2013 and has since grown significantly, now consisting of 6 committee members and over 70 members. In its first year, the branch held 20 events on wildlife topics and engaged over 500 children through its Badger Club events. It also completed a nest box scheme for barn owls, kestrels and bats. Going forward, the branch aims to continue expanding its volunteer conservation work, events, and engagement with the local community in Laois and Offaly.
Abbeyleix Bog Project entry to LEAF Green Community Awards 2014LaoisLeaf
The Abbeyleix Bog Project is a community-led conservation initiative that has restored and rehabilitated 500 acres of natural heritage area in Abbeyleix, Ireland. Through partnerships with local stakeholders and volunteer efforts, the project has built a boardwalk for recreation, engaged in conservation activities like invasive species removal, and become a model for community-led conservation in Ireland. The project has brought environmental and economic benefits to Abbeyleix and has engaged schools, universities and other community groups through educational activities on the bog. Future plans include continuing conservation management based on a new plan, expanding recreation access, and developing the bog as an educational resource.
Presentation on Public Participation Networks PPNs by Environmental PillarLaoisLeaf
This is a presentation compiled by Michael Ewing, Coordinator of the Irish Environmental Pillar introducing the new local government reforms structures for public participation - PPNs
Public participation Networks - Well Being presentationLaoisLeaf
This is the presentation by Michael Ewing from the Environmental Pillar on Public Participation Networks as part of local government reform. Dated April 2014
The document summarizes the minutes from a LEAF (Laois Environmental Action Forum) planning meeting. Key discussions included:
1. Applying for LA21 funding to introduce a "Green Community Award" to recognize sustainable projects in Laois. Criteria for the award was discussed.
2. Forming a subcommittee to reach out to stakeholders and finalize award criteria and categories.
3. Deciding LEAF would not host climate or GM events but support others. An event with Irish planners was proposed.
4. Agreeing to adopt a governance code and delay pursuing company status due to upcoming legal changes. Local government reform and environmental representation was discussed.
5. Various other initiatives
Eu policy needs concerning advice about marine ecosystems update oct 15th 2013LaoisLeaf
The document discusses EU policy needs concerning advice about marine ecosystems. It provides an overview of the Common Fisheries Policy and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The Common Fisheries Policy aims to manage fisheries within ecologically meaningful boundaries using an ecosystem-based approach. It outlines various measures to minimize the negative impacts of fishing, including on protected species and habitats. The Marine Strategy Framework Directive requires member states to assess and monitor the environmental status of marine waters using 11 descriptors and achieve good environmental status by 2020.
Dg mare, fishing opportunities, cfp reform and financing ep update oct 15th 2013LaoisLeaf
The document summarizes key elements of the new Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) that was politically agreed to in July 2013, including:
1. The CFP's objectives to ensure sustainable fishing and aquaculture activities that achieve economic, social and employment benefits while contributing to food supply.
2. The CFP's goals to restore and maintain fish populations above levels that can produce maximum sustainable yield (MSY) by 2015 where possible and by 2020 for all stocks, and implement an ecosystem-based approach.
3. Details on implementing the landing obligation, achieving MSY targets, regional cooperation, science and data collection, control and enforcement, and financing instruments.
"
Update on rural development plans to date 2014 2020 environment-15_oct 2013LaoisLeaf
This is the presentation to Environmental Pillar delegation to Brussels in October 2013 outlining the significant role the environment will play in the next round of Rural Development funding.
Leaf, Laois Environmental Action Forum annual report 2013LaoisLeaf
This is a presentation of sustainable development news from Laois including some activities run by LEAF, some supported by LEAF and some welcomed by LEAF.
Threats to mobile devices are more prevalent and increasing in scope and complexity. Users of mobile devices desire to take full advantage of the features
available on those devices, but many of the features provide convenience and capability but sacrifice security. This best practices guide outlines steps the users can take to better protect personal devices and information.
Best 20 SEO Techniques To Improve Website Visibility In SERPPixlogix Infotech
Boost your website's visibility with proven SEO techniques! Our latest blog dives into essential strategies to enhance your online presence, increase traffic, and rank higher on search engines. From keyword optimization to quality content creation, learn how to make your site stand out in the crowded digital landscape. Discover actionable tips and expert insights to elevate your SEO game.
“An Outlook of the Ongoing and Future Relationship between Blockchain Technologies and Process-aware Information Systems.” Invited talk at the joint workshop on Blockchain for Information Systems (BC4IS) and Blockchain for Trusted Data Sharing (B4TDS), co-located with with the 36th International Conference on Advanced Information Systems Engineering (CAiSE), 3 June 2024, Limassol, Cyprus.
Dr. Sean Tan, Head of Data Science, Changi Airport Group
Discover how Changi Airport Group (CAG) leverages graph technologies and generative AI to revolutionize their search capabilities. This session delves into the unique search needs of CAG’s diverse passengers and customers, showcasing how graph data structures enhance the accuracy and relevance of AI-generated search results, mitigating the risk of “hallucinations” and improving the overall customer journey.
How to Get CNIC Information System with Paksim Ga.pptxdanishmna97
Pakdata Cf is a groundbreaking system designed to streamline and facilitate access to CNIC information. This innovative platform leverages advanced technology to provide users with efficient and secure access to their CNIC details.
Observability Concepts EVERY Developer Should Know -- DeveloperWeek Europe.pdfPaige Cruz
Monitoring and observability aren’t traditionally found in software curriculums and many of us cobble this knowledge together from whatever vendor or ecosystem we were first introduced to and whatever is a part of your current company’s observability stack.
While the dev and ops silo continues to crumble….many organizations still relegate monitoring & observability as the purview of ops, infra and SRE teams. This is a mistake - achieving a highly observable system requires collaboration up and down the stack.
I, a former op, would like to extend an invitation to all application developers to join the observability party will share these foundational concepts to build on:
Infrastructure Challenges in Scaling RAG with Custom AI modelsZilliz
Building Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) systems with open-source and custom AI models is a complex task. This talk explores the challenges in productionizing RAG systems, including retrieval performance, response synthesis, and evaluation. We’ll discuss how to leverage open-source models like text embeddings, language models, and custom fine-tuned models to enhance RAG performance. Additionally, we’ll cover how BentoML can help orchestrate and scale these AI components efficiently, ensuring seamless deployment and management of RAG systems in the cloud.
Full-RAG: A modern architecture for hyper-personalizationZilliz
Mike Del Balso, CEO & Co-Founder at Tecton, presents "Full RAG," a novel approach to AI recommendation systems, aiming to push beyond the limitations of traditional models through a deep integration of contextual insights and real-time data, leveraging the Retrieval-Augmented Generation architecture. This talk will outline Full RAG's potential to significantly enhance personalization, address engineering challenges such as data management and model training, and introduce data enrichment with reranking as a key solution. Attendees will gain crucial insights into the importance of hyperpersonalization in AI, the capabilities of Full RAG for advanced personalization, and strategies for managing complex data integrations for deploying cutting-edge AI solutions.
Removing Uninteresting Bytes in Software FuzzingAftab Hussain
Imagine a world where software fuzzing, the process of mutating bytes in test seeds to uncover hidden and erroneous program behaviors, becomes faster and more effective. A lot depends on the initial seeds, which can significantly dictate the trajectory of a fuzzing campaign, particularly in terms of how long it takes to uncover interesting behaviour in your code. We introduce DIAR, a technique designed to speedup fuzzing campaigns by pinpointing and eliminating those uninteresting bytes in the seeds. Picture this: instead of wasting valuable resources on meaningless mutations in large, bloated seeds, DIAR removes the unnecessary bytes, streamlining the entire process.
In this work, we equipped AFL, a popular fuzzer, with DIAR and examined two critical Linux libraries -- Libxml's xmllint, a tool for parsing xml documents, and Binutil's readelf, an essential debugging and security analysis command-line tool used to display detailed information about ELF (Executable and Linkable Format). Our preliminary results show that AFL+DIAR does not only discover new paths more quickly but also achieves higher coverage overall. This work thus showcases how starting with lean and optimized seeds can lead to faster, more comprehensive fuzzing campaigns -- and DIAR helps you find such seeds.
- These are slides of the talk given at IEEE International Conference on Software Testing Verification and Validation Workshop, ICSTW 2022.
Why You Should Replace Windows 11 with Nitrux Linux 3.5.0 for enhanced perfor...SOFTTECHHUB
The choice of an operating system plays a pivotal role in shaping our computing experience. For decades, Microsoft's Windows has dominated the market, offering a familiar and widely adopted platform for personal and professional use. However, as technological advancements continue to push the boundaries of innovation, alternative operating systems have emerged, challenging the status quo and offering users a fresh perspective on computing.
One such alternative that has garnered significant attention and acclaim is Nitrux Linux 3.5.0, a sleek, powerful, and user-friendly Linux distribution that promises to redefine the way we interact with our devices. With its focus on performance, security, and customization, Nitrux Linux presents a compelling case for those seeking to break free from the constraints of proprietary software and embrace the freedom and flexibility of open-source computing.
GraphSummit Singapore | The Art of the Possible with Graph - Q2 2024Neo4j
Neha Bajwa, Vice President of Product Marketing, Neo4j
Join us as we explore breakthrough innovations enabled by interconnected data and AI. Discover firsthand how organizations use relationships in data to uncover contextual insights and solve our most pressing challenges – from optimizing supply chains, detecting fraud, and improving customer experiences to accelerating drug discoveries.
Essentials of Automations: The Art of Triggers and Actions in FMESafe Software
In this second installment of our Essentials of Automations webinar series, we’ll explore the landscape of triggers and actions, guiding you through the nuances of authoring and adapting workspaces for seamless automations. Gain an understanding of the full spectrum of triggers and actions available in FME, empowering you to enhance your workspaces for efficient automation.
We’ll kick things off by showcasing the most commonly used event-based triggers, introducing you to various automation workflows like manual triggers, schedules, directory watchers, and more. Plus, see how these elements play out in real scenarios.
Whether you’re tweaking your current setup or building from the ground up, this session will arm you with the tools and insights needed to transform your FME usage into a powerhouse of productivity. Join us to discover effective strategies that simplify complex processes, enhancing your productivity and transforming your data management practices with FME. Let’s turn complexity into clarity and make your workspaces work wonders!
Pushing the limits of ePRTC: 100ns holdover for 100 daysAdtran
At WSTS 2024, Alon Stern explored the topic of parametric holdover and explained how recent research findings can be implemented in real-world PNT networks to achieve 100 nanoseconds of accuracy for up to 100 days.
For the full video of this presentation, please visit: https://www.edge-ai-vision.com/2024/06/building-and-scaling-ai-applications-with-the-nx-ai-manager-a-presentation-from-network-optix/
Robin van Emden, Senior Director of Data Science at Network Optix, presents the “Building and Scaling AI Applications with the Nx AI Manager,” tutorial at the May 2024 Embedded Vision Summit.
In this presentation, van Emden covers the basics of scaling edge AI solutions using the Nx tool kit. He emphasizes the process of developing AI models and deploying them globally. He also showcases the conversion of AI models and the creation of effective edge AI pipelines, with a focus on pre-processing, model conversion, selecting the appropriate inference engine for the target hardware and post-processing.
van Emden shows how Nx can simplify the developer’s life and facilitate a rapid transition from concept to production-ready applications.He provides valuable insights into developing scalable and efficient edge AI solutions, with a strong focus on practical implementation.
Communications Mining Series - Zero to Hero - Session 1DianaGray10
This session provides introduction to UiPath Communication Mining, importance and platform overview. You will acquire a good understand of the phases in Communication Mining as we go over the platform with you. Topics covered:
• Communication Mining Overview
• Why is it important?
• How can it help today’s business and the benefits
• Phases in Communication Mining
• Demo on Platform overview
• Q/A
UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series, part 6DianaGray10
Welcome to UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series part 6. In this session, we will cover Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI.
UiPath Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI webinar offers an in-depth exploration of leveraging cutting-edge technologies for test automation within the UiPath platform. Attendees will delve into the integration of generative AI, a test automation solution, with Open AI advanced natural language processing capabilities.
Throughout the session, participants will discover how this synergy empowers testers to automate repetitive tasks, enhance testing accuracy, and expedite the software testing life cycle. Topics covered include the seamless integration process, practical use cases, and the benefits of harnessing AI-driven automation for UiPath testing initiatives. By attending this webinar, testers, and automation professionals can gain valuable insights into harnessing the power of AI to optimize their test automation workflows within the UiPath ecosystem, ultimately driving efficiency and quality in software development processes.
What will you get from this session?
1. Insights into integrating generative AI.
2. Understanding how this integration enhances test automation within the UiPath platform
3. Practical demonstrations
4. Exploration of real-world use cases illustrating the benefits of AI-driven test automation for UiPath
Topics covered:
What is generative AI
Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI.
UiPath integration with generative AI
Speaker:
Deepak Rai, Automation Practice Lead, Boundaryless Group and UiPath MVP
UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series, part 6
People's Charter on Renewable Energy report
1.
Renewable
Energy
–
Production,
Distribution
&
Conservation
Creating
a
People’s
Charter
for
Renewable
Energy
2. Table
of
Contents
Renewable
Energy
–
Production,
Distribution
&
Conservation
Introduction
Flagging
the
Issues
Solutions
to
the
Issues
Technologies
Duncan
Stewarts
Speech
Conservation
Distribution
Motivation
3
4
4
5
6
6
7
9
3. Introduction
Laois
Environmental
Action
Forum
(LEAF)
and
Claiming
Our
Future
(COF),
hosted
the
renewable
energy
event,
“Renewable
Energy
–
Production,
Distribution
and
Conservation”
on
November
9th.
It
was
designed
to
encourage
communities
to
participate
in
the
planning
of
our
transition
away
from
fossil
fuel.
The
event
was
based
on
four
simple
assumptions:
1. Communities
must
be
involved
2. Renewable
energy
needs
to
be
developed
to
reduce
our
dependency
on
fossil
fuels
3. Fuel
poverty
needs
to
be
addressed,
guided
by
the
principles
of
equality
4. Climate
change
must
be
addressed
Proposals
for
wind
farms,
fracking
and
drilling
for
oil
near
Irish
coasts
have
led
to
energy
becoming
a
contentious
and
divisive
issue
for
many.
Ideas
about
solar
power,
storage
and
transmission
abound.
So
many
people
have
ideas
about
what
we
must
do.
We
believe
it
is
possible
to
have
creative
conversations
on
these
subjects
while
focusing
on
the
four
assumptions
above.
The
day
was
broken
into
three
sessions
based
on
three
topics,
energy
generation,
distribution,
and
conservation.
Before
each
session
the
"experts"
introduced
themselves
briefly,
2
minutes
max,
and
let
people
know
their
area
of
expertise.
This
event
was
being
independently
facilitated.
Most
conversations
were
held
in
small
groups
to
ensure
full
participation
for
all
involved.
It
is
hoped
that
this
event
is
the
start
of
a
process
where
the
end
result
we
are
aiming
for
is
a
people’s
charter
to
deliver
to
our
government,
showing
what
the
people
want
and
giving
a
roadmap
for
how
progress
can
be
made,
collaboratively.
4.
Flagging
the
Issues
The
analogy
that
we
were
all
outsiders
was
used
in
order
to
have
people
exam
the
problems
from
a
detached
viewpoint.
For
this,
participants
imagined
themselves
as
aliens
orbiting
the
Earth,
observing
from
a
distance.
Outlined
below
are
issues
identified
by
each
group.
Many
tables
identified
greed
as
the
driving
force
behind
many
of
the
issues
we
face
today.
Businesses
are
driven
by
profit
and
see
the
environment
as
the
source
of
that
profit
without
understanding
the
long-‐term
consequences.
This
shortsightedness
was
picked
up
a
number
of
other
groups.
People
identified
that
politics
have
a
short-‐term
outlook
to
a
long-‐term
problem.
There
is
no
holistic
vision
of
the
current
energy
system.
Communities
need
to
get
involved
and
air
their
grievances
and
be
listened
to.
There
needs
to
be
more
transparency
regarding
the
problems
associated
with
climate
change.
Simply
knowing
there
is
a
problem
is
not
enough.
Action
is
required!
There
is
a
lack
of
local
ownership,
which
may
stem
from
the
government
not
engaging
with
public
regarding
the
problems
and
options
available.
Commercial
interests
and
not
social
interests
drive
energy
development.
We
persist
with
the
use
of
fossil
fuels
rather
than
identifying
viable
options
that
are
sustainable
and
long
lasting.
Solutions
to
the
Issues
Once
the
issues
were
identified
or
“Flagged”,
viable
options
available
were
listed
by
each
table.
Some
of
these
options
or
ideas
are
outlined
below.
• Integrated
understanding
(Governance).
o At
a
local/national
and
EU.
• Bring
all
sides
together
starting
with
local
communities.
• Co-‐ownership
of
energy
solutions
to
empower
local
communities.
• Communication
and
work
ethic.
• Carbon
budget
for
Ireland.
• Conserving
consumption.
• Global
solidarity
against
fossil
fuels.
• Listening
to
communities.
• Stop
fighting
and
work
together.
• Move
to
cooperatives.
• New
economy.
• Strive
for
energy
independence.
• Close
to
source
consumption.
• Projects
with
no
environmental
impact.
5. Technologies
Next
on
the
agenda,
we
discussed
various
technological
options.
Each
table
was
assigned
to
discuss
a
certain
topic/technology
and
people
were
free
to
join
and
leave
tables
as
they
pleased.
The
topics
discussed
at
each
table
were
the
following:
• Energy
Co-‐Operatives
• Eirgrid
• Combined
Heat
and
Power
• Solar
Energy
• Wind
Energy
• Subsidies
and
Carbon
Tax
The
Energy
Co-‐Operative
table
discussed
the
need
for
community
cooperatives
around
Ireland.
There
is
the
possibility
to
create
local
micro-‐grids
to
supply
and
balance
energy
requirements.
Also
discussed
was
how
Ireland
is
following
the
UK’s
model,
which
was
identified
as
being
unsustainable
for
Ireland.
We
need
to
look
at
similar
economies,
such
as
Denmark
and
Austria.
Ireland’s
Eirgrid
pillons
were
also
discussed
and
it
was
noted
at
this
table
that
a
systems
thinking
approach
to
renewable
energy
and
other
resource
use.
The
table
debating
Combined
Heat
and
Power
identified
the
benefits
of
efficient
fuel
use
as
well
as
the
flexibility
of
Sterling
Engine
CHP’s
that
can
run
on
many
types
of
fuels.
The
cost
of
installation
became
an
issue
and
CHP
installations
were
not
recommended
for
retrofits.
With
accurate
sizing,
a
unit
can
be
paid
back
within
2-‐3
years.
Solar
and
wind
energy
were
also
discussed
to
those
who
wished
to
learn
more.
Questions
around
Wind
energy’s
efficiency
and
how
the
industry
is
regulated
were
raised.
However
there
was
interest
in
community
owned
wind
farms
and
with
the
right
expertise,
funding
and
structures,
it
was
seen
as
a
viable
option
in
the
Laois
area.
Solar
energy
is
technically
feasibility
in
Ireland,
but
with
the
lake
of
policy
to
stimulate
the
deployment
of
this
technology
will
remain
low.
There
are
10,000
installations
in
Ireland
at
present
and
the
growth
will
continue
to
remain
slow
unless
there
is
an
access
to
capital.
Finally
the
last
table
discussed
subsidies
and
a
carbon
tax.
The
energy
subsidies
supporting
fossil
fuels
were
identified
as
inhibitors
to
the
deployment
of
renewable
energy
technologies.
These
subsidies
must
be
removed
if
we
are
to
move
away
from
dirty
fuels.
The
carbon
tax
was
also
debated
and
the
consensus
was
that
there
is
a
need
for
a
fair
carbon
tax
at
all
levels.
The
capital
gained
by
these
taxes
must
be
invested
in
a
mix
of
renewables,
as
it
will
not
be
one
technology
that
will
solve
Ireland’s
dependence
on
fossil
fuel
imports.
Participants
were
urged
to
become
more
active
and
realize
that
they
have
options.
6. Duncan
Stewarts
Speech
Duncan
Stewart
had
just
15
minutes
to
impart
some
words
of
wisdom
and
advice
to
all
at
the
event.
Duncan
made
it
clear
that
we
can
no
longer
wait
for
change
to
happen,
communities
need
to
be
the
drivers.
People
must
become
organized
and
actively
involved.
In
order
to
do
this
though,
citizens
need
options,
both
technological
and
financial.
Duncan
reiterated
the
importance
of
immediate
action
and
how
dependent
we
are
as
an
island
on
imported
fuels.
We
are
at
the
mercy
of
the
global
market
and
we
should
be
striving
for
energy
independence.
Duncan’s
rousing
speech
gave
hope
to
many
of
the
event’s
guest
and
gave
impotence
to
the
group
to
continue
the
discussion.
Conservation
Following
Duncan’s
speech,
we
were
again
divided
into
various
tables
to
discuss
a
number
of
topics
with
our
“Experts”.
The
table
topics
are
listed
below:
• Media’s
Role
• Aarhuis
• District
Heating
• Transition
Ireland
and
Northern
Ireland
• Energy
Monitoring
and
Management
• Air
Tightness
and
Heat
Recovery
• Finance
and
Co-‐Ops
• Insulation
The
role
of
the
media
in
Energy
conservation
and
renewable
energy
deployment
was
assed
at
one
table.
This
group
identified
the
need
to
use
social
media
and
online
forums
to
communicate
and
open
dialogue
between
environmental
groups.
It
was
suggested
that
people
within
the
community
could
write
their
own
stories
and
submit
these
to
newspapers.
As
well
as
being
more
proactive
with
campaigning,
communities
should
examine
the
potential
for
district
heating
systems.
One
group
discussed
the
possibilities
of
such
a
system
and
how
certain
areas
have
the
criteria
needed
for
installing
such
a
system.
Another
group
discussed
energy
monitoring
and
management
as
a
way
to
conserve
consumption.
During
this
discussion
our
expert
outlined
how
through
active
monitoring
of
energy
use,
individuals
can
become
more
aware
of
wasted
energy.
As
well
as
this,
there
is
the
opportunity
to
provide
jobs
at
a
local
level.
The
airtightness
and
heat
recovery
table
discussed
methods
making
a
dwelling
more
airtight
and
thus
reduce
the
amount
of
heat
loss.
The
key
is
to
make
people
more
aware
of
how
they
can
make
small
improvements
to
their
building
envelope
and
save
on
energy
consumption
for
space
heating.
One
piece
of
advice
was
to
use
ceiling
tape
to
prevent
air
escaping.
This
can
be
easily
concealed
by
painting
over.
As
well
as
the
airtightness
of
a
building,
an
expert
on
insulation
formed
a
group
to
identify
the
options
and
potential
pitfalls
of
selecting
insulation.
Concerns
were
raised
over
petrochemical
materials
for
insulation
and
how
there
is
a
lack
of
funding
and
supply
for
Eco
materials,
such
as
hemp.
7. The
table
discussing
the
Aarhuis
convention
outlined
the
need
for
environmental
rights
in
the
constitution
and
how
there
should
be
an
environmental
court
to
prosecute
those
that
damage
the
Irish
environment
for
financial
gain.
The
need
for
up
skilling
within
the
public
sector
was
also
proposed
as
well
as
improved
public
awareness
and
education.
More
people
need
to
engage
with
the
Aarhuis
but
this
will
only
be
possible
through
improved
information
distribution
for
example
employing
information
officers
and
holding
Aarthuis
information
roadshows.
The
final
table
introduced
“Transition
Ireland
and
Northern
Ireland”
(TINI)
and
gave
an
introduction
into
the
movement
and
how
there
is
a
need
for
a
network
to
make
such
a
transition
possible.
Distribution
Our
next
session
divided
up
the
groups
again
to
discuss
aspects
of
distribution
and
any
other
topic
of
interest
to
participants.
The
topics
included:
• Energy
Democracy
• Co-‐Operatives
and
Energy
• Eirgrid’s
Pylons
• Anaerobic
digestion
• European
Policy
• Smart
Micro-‐Grids
The
group
discussing
Energy
democracy
examined
the
various
problems
existing
within
the
Irish
system
and
also
how
these
issues
could
be
resolved.
These
problems
and
solutions
are
outlined
below.
• Various
problems
were
identified
o Opaque
democracy
o Governance
not
government
o No
Leadership
o Pro
profit
ideology
o Pro
market
bias
is
senior
public
servants
o Semi-‐state
“competition”
is
a
gravy
train
o Appointed
local
government
• Solutions
were
also
offered
o Use
existing
smart
grid
o Re-‐politicizes
the
population
o Aarhuis
convention
–
use
it
o Upstream
participation
o Redefine
national
interests
when
it
comes
to
energy
o New
players
in
local
democracy
must
be
accountable
o Challenge
semi-‐state
selfish
interest
o Semi
state
mandate
to
become
social
and
not
commercial
o Democratise
semi-‐states
8. Once
again,
Co-‐Operatives
were
discussed.
This
time,
barriers
related
to
the
establishment
of
energy
Co-‐Operatives
were
identified.
Two
of
the
most
prominent
barriers
are
related
to
peoples
trust
in
such
projects.
People
need
instant
success
and
reward
otherwise
there
isn’t
much
interest.
People
tend
to
retrofit
their
existing
home,
without
thinking
of
the
benefits
of
energy
Co-‐
Operatives.
There
is
a
need
to
communicate
with
like-‐minded
people
and
establish
a
suitable
forum
to
communicate
and
share
ideas.
Eirgrid’s
Pylons
were
the
subject
of
our
next
group’s
discussion.
This
group
were
concerned
with
the
large
pylons
being
constructed
in
the
Laois
area.
Such
investment
into
Ireland’s
grid
is
dependent
on
continued
economic
growth
and
resource
consumption.
There
should
be
more
focus
on
improving
energy
efficiency
and
strategies
to
combat
the
forecasted
increase
in
consumption
should
be
aimed
at
local
renewable
energy
projects.
Anaerobic
digestion
(AD)
was
discussed
within
another
group
and
had
many
interested
participants.
Issues
such
as
investment
costs,
deployment
potential,
interest
and
legislation
were
discussed.
The
expert
at
the
table
made
it
aware
that
in
order
for
AD
to
be
successfully
deployed,
AD
needs
buy
in
from
all
the
community.
With
the
topics
based
around
the
distribution
of
energy,
Smart
micro
grids
was
yet
another
topic
people
found
interesting
and
applicable.
There
is
a
need
for
case
studies
to
show
the
authorities
it
is
possible.
An
energy
survey
is
a
good
way
to
start
and
such
works
will
drive
the
local
economy
by
supplying
badly
needed
employment.
The
group
outlined
the
need
for
a
fund
for
projects
that
payback
in
less
than
two
years.
The
expert
made
it
clear
that
moving
forward
there
is
a
need
for
a
community
plan
(3
year
plan
as
suggested)
and
a
forum
to
network
between
Co-‐ops.
The
final
two
tables
examined
how
change
might
happen.
The
suggestions
are
briefly
outlined
below:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Taxes
and
sanctions
Need
for
a
carbon
budget
o Set
a
limit
o How
will
we
spend
it?
Social
justice
impact
assessment
Direct
action
o Even
in
the
absence
of
popular
support
Presentation
of
a
convincing
sustainable
alternative
o Climate
change
people
talk
about
problems
and
solutions
Next
generation
needs
to
be
born
with
a
conscience!
More
use
of
electronic
democracy
across
EU
• Use
petitions?
9. Motivation
With
such
a
large
amount
of
information
having
to
be
consumed
and
the
most
dizzying
amount
of
problems
we
face
we
decided
to
end
the
event
by
focusing
on
motivation.
Groups
were
asked
to
write
a
few
points
about
what
motivates
them
and
how
to
get
motivated
for
the
future.
There
were
a
diverse
number
of
points
made
and
participants
want
communities
to
lead
the
way
with
sustainable
community
led
projects.
In
order
for
this
to
be
achieved,
there
is
a
need
for
energy
policies
to
facilitate
neighbourhood
projects
and
enable
local
cooperatives
to
form.
Communities
need
to
become
empowered
and
need
to
become
more
involved
in
shaping
their
local
energy
future.
Other
groups
focused
on
the
energy
options
discussed
by
the
experts
as
their
motivation
for
the
future.
We
need
to
monitor
our
electricity
use,
chop
wood,
set
up
of
cooperatives,
and
apply
pressure
to
bring
about
a
change
in
our
climate
future.
We
need
to
seize
the
day
and
get
behind
sustainable
projects.
One
individual
alone
cannot
achieve
an
energy
secure
future,
it
will
take
a
group
focused
on
a
common
goal.
But
the
options
are
out
available,
there
just
needs
to
be
enough
voices
behind
each
project.