International Energy Agency recommends steps for a clean energy system

Efficiency, Energy Audit, Renewable Energy,

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International Energy Agency recommends steps for a clean energy system

September 5, 2012 — INDOLINK Consulting (es)

Source: The Economic Times, Sept 04, 2012

AHMEDABAD: International Energy Agency (IEA) has recommended creation of an investment climate that builds confidence in the long-term potential of clean energy technologies, level the playing field for clean energy technologies and scaling up efforts to unlock the potential of energy efficiency.
IEA Executive director Maria van der Hoeven urged energy ministers of all countries to set the stage for a low-carbon future at a FICCI Roundtable on ‘Energy Technology Perspectives 2012; Pathways to a Clean Energy System’.

According to statement of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the recommendations include creation of an investment climate that builds confidence in the long-term potential of clean energy technologies.

‘Industry is key to the transition. Common goals supported by stringent and predictable policies are essential to establish the necessary credibility within the investment community,’ said the statement.

“Investment in clean energy makes economic sense as every additional dollar invested can generate three dollars in future fuel savings by 2050,” said Hoeven. IEA also advocated a level the playing field for clean energy technologies.

Governments should commit to, and report on, progress on national actions that aim to appropriately reflect the true cost of energy production and consumption. Pricing carbon emissions and phasing out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, while ensuring access to affordable energy for all citizens, are central goals.

It also recommended scaling up efforts to unlock the potential of energy efficiency. The IEA has developed 25 energy efficiency recommendations to help governments achieve the full potential of energy efficiency improvements across all energy-consuming sectors.

Committing to application of these recommendations would form a good basis for action and accelerate results. Other measures advocated include acceleration in energy innovation and public research, development and demonstration.

Governments should develop and implement strategic energy research plans, backed by enhanced and sustained financial support. Additionally, governments should consider joint RD&D efforts to co-ordinate action, avoid duplication, and improve the performance and reduce the costs of technologies at the early innovation phase, including sharing lessons learned on innovative RD&D models.