The energy transition isn’t just about adding more renewables to the system – it’s about changing and democratizing energy production. Peter Terrium of Innogy writes on his experiences in the PV sector, the importance of the consumer, and the role of utilities.
Author: Energiewende Team
Malta’s energy transition – a slow but promising start
The island of Malta is heavily dependent on oil imports, and could benefit greatly from its own energy transition. Despite some barriers to renewables, solar is booming – and if it continues to do so, Malta should be able to meet its 2020 energy goals. Geoffrey Saliba explains.
Why an innovative new eco-hamlet should be the size of a city
Recently, we talked about the fact that Germany’s energy transition has been too electricity-focused. Today, John Grant describes what is necessary for more efficient buildings: the support and understanding of the construction industry.
Hamburg considers innovative heat storage scheme
Institutions in Hamburg are proposing to build a large underground thermal heat storage system that could supply roughly a quarter of the city’s heating needs with waste heat from industrial and power plants. If successful, it would make Vattenfall’s plans to realise a CO2-neutral district heating network superfluous. It could also serve as an example for other cities. Jeffrey Michel explains.
CSIRO says Australia can get to 100 per cent renewable energy
The Australian government’s chief scientific body says there is no apparent technical impediment to reaching 100 per cent renewables for the national electricity grid, and levels of up to 30 per cent renewable energy should be considered as just “trivial” in current energy systems. Giles Parkinson explains.
Exclusive interview: energy transition architect Claude Turmes tells inside story of EU energy policy
Green MEP Claude Turmes has led some of Europe’s key energy and climate policy reforms since 2000. Now for the first time in a book, launched in Brussels on 1 March, he explains how and why Brussels has pioneered – and obstructed – the energy transition in Europe. In an exclusive interview with Energy Post, Turmes gives an insider account of dreams, lobbies, and political, economic and social realities.
Powering up: meet the women electrifying China’s energy transition
The world’s biggest polluter is now the global renewables leader, and these women are helping to lead the charge. Anna McGurk of Greenpeace introduces two women leading China’s transition.
Blockchain for the energy revolution? Don’t believe the hype!
Blockchain is currently the talk of the town. A couple of years ago it was assumed that the virtual currency would radically transform the financial industry; now, other industries (including energy) are expected to be disrupted as well. That hasn’t happened yet. Ajaz Shah provides a critical take.
Why Kosovo needs climate friendly energy alternatives
The majority of Kosovo’s energy comes from lignite, and a new plant is being planned (despite potential problems with the European Union). Communities must invest in renewables, which can help revitalize local economies, increase democratic participation, and improve the environment. Jasminka Young explains.
Bangladesh emerges as a hotbed for solar microgrids, p2p energy trading
In Bangladesh, government programs and startups are using solar to improve standards of living and agriculture. The small systems can have a huge impact on people’s lives, and act as an economic motor. Andrew Burger of MicroGrid Media has the details.