—– Original Message —–
From: Sheetal – FindStone
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 12:44 PM
Subject: TOI: Buildings have a high energy-recovery effect: March 31, 2009
Buildings have a high energy-recovery effect
What does the report say of India?
It says it is possible to stabilise emissions and keep global (warming) levels below two degrees Celsius with existing technology without compromising the economic development of developing countries focused on energy efficiency and renewable sources. More than 35 per cent of Indias electricity demands can be met by renewables by 2030 and 50 per cent of the projected energy requirements can be met with smart generation, distribution and use of energy.
What is the Smart Energy Cities (SEC) plan?
The SEC concept of the European Economic Plan for Recovery is aimed at showcasing new, sustainable ways of creating habitats and workplaces equipping public buildings with new technology as lighthouse models so that others can follow suit. Solar and thermal technologies are easily available for heating and cooling. The price of solar photovoltaics for electricity generation is decreasing. Were doing this in the north in cooler climes; imagine what a sunshinerich country like India can do. The greatest potential for renewable energy is here in India, especially in solar and wind resources.
The Covenant of Mayors in January this year encouraged voluntary commitment of city mayors to reduce energy consumption by 20 per cent of 2005 levels by 2020 and to increase the share of renewable energy to 20 per cent by the year 2020. Already, 500 mayors have signed up and have agreed to go beyond this commitment. The trend is to go for zero net energy for new buildings and retrofitting old ones. Any city in the world can volunteer to be part of this initiative.
Why this focus on buildings?