In the Spring of 2017, the Heads of State and Government concluded the development of a sustainable, green and integrated European climate and energy policy as an uppermost priority. An energy and climate package has been adapted to guide the EU towards a competitive and secure energy economy whilst promoting energy saving and climate friendly energy sources. Now, this aspiration does not come without comprehensive challenges; how to tackle climate change, guarantee secure, sustainable and competitive energy, and make the European economy a model for sustainable development in the 21st era? Let’s consider how challenges like the aforementioned can be addressed through Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).
As one would expect, ICTs have a crucial role to play in reducing emissions and contributing to sustainable growth. Note that ICT itself is a small yet outstanding visible energy consumer. Take for instance the Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) or take-up directed at increasing energy efficiency at the level of components, systems and applications. Other forms that are impacted by the use of ICT are the adaptation of green-procurement and substitution technologies. However, perhaps even more important, ICTs are also enablers to create energy efficiency across the economy. New business models, better monitoring and finer control of all kinds of processes and activities are fine examples of ICTs role as enabler. All sectors of the economy, which are becoming increasingly ICT -dependent, will benefit to a varying degree from the use of ICTs.
Europe, and indeed other continents as well, need to ensure that ICT-enabled solutions are available and fully deployed so as to achieve the ambitious targets that are set. Each of us, including businesses, governments and civil society will be called upon to enter a new form of collaboration and innovative leadership. However, this post aims to raise awareness of the current and potential impact of ICT as an enabler for energy efficiency, stimulating an open discussion on this matter.
Who are the relevant stakeholders? What should be the initial focus; power grids, energy-smart homes and buildings? Which areas of ICT and energy can create synergies?
Sources
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/5463327/
- “Addressing the challenge of energy efficiency through information and communication technologies” 2008.
