Wind Energy and renewable energy blog

Step Change Needed to Embrace Renewable Energy

Renewable energy technology by its very nature needs an abundance of the relevant natural resource to generate electricity, whether it be the sun, the wind or the tides. However it also needs to be close to a grid connection point so that the electricity can be distributed to where it is needed.

Nimbyism occurs when people refuse to accept that where they live might be suitable for a renewable energy technology. We do however need renewable energy technology in as many places as can be accommodated, subject to the impacts not outweighing the benefits.

Green Revolution Moves forward a step as China promises Carbon Cuts

The Chinese President announced today that he was prepared to take action on climate change. President Hu Jintao told the UN summit that the country is prepared to make a carbon reduction promise through the introduction of a 2020 target.

Jintao said that notable reductions in emission levels would be made by 2020 from the 2005 levels, a in a move that was welcomed by Chinese green groups.

Although no specific target has been set and there much work to be done, China has for the first time indicated that decisions about the energy future of the country will not be entirely driven by short term economic goals. The announcement demonstrates that pressure from other countries leading the way on carbon reduction can make a difference.

I attended a public consultation exercise for a new wind farm at Spaldington Airfield, in Yorkshire, England at the weekend. Many people were supportive of the proposals and felt strongly that every small move counts in the fight against climate change.