RENEWABLE ENERGY:
The wave of the future – available today BY ERIN BASWICK, HONEYWELL
British Columbia’s renewable energy sector is expanding. The use of renewable technologies including wind, solar, biomass and geothermal is on the rise as the demand for carbon neutrality increases. This demand was recently expressed in BC’s 2008 Balanced Budget, where addressing climate change was presented as a top priority. In fact, the budget allocates over $1 billion to climate action initiatives. In addition to this, BC’s new Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction Targets Act is a strong indicator that the province is moving towards carbon neutral facilities. By the year 2020, when the targets are achieved, BC’s GHG emissions will be one third below 2007 levels – this is an impressive reduction; one that sets the standard for the rest of North America. Reaching this goal will require more than reduced energy consumption; new technologies will need to be developed in addition to the proven renewable technologies currently available. Renewable energy, also known as
This Renewable Energy Score Card demonstrates that biomass is a viable option within B.C.
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School Plant Officials Association of B.C. Spring 2008
alternative energy, is derived from resources that are regenerative such as the sun and wind; approximately 29% of energy is currently derived from renewable energy sources. The use of wind, water, and solar power are widespread; however, the mass production of electricity using renewable energy sources has only recently become more commonplace, reflecting the major threats of climate change due to pollution, exhaustion of fossil fuels, and the environmental, social and political risks associated with fossil fuels and nuclear power. Several types of proven, renewable technologies are currently available in BC; these include solar (thermal air/water and photovoltaic), wind, biomass (thermal and electrical) and geothermal. Solar (thermal air, thermal water, photovoltaic) There are several types of solar solutions available for use in BC. Solar thermal technology is energy efficient and is commonly used to provide heating. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems use solar panels and other technology to generate electricity from the power of the sun.
