European cities to go energy smart, COP 15
Release Date: 2009-09-18
The EU will select between 25 and 30 cities where a number of low-carbon technologies will be implemented. An overall element is an ”intelligent” power grid that allows integration of a mix of fluctuating energy sources.Morten Andersen 18/09/2009 02:55
Electric cars, trams and busses that get their power from wind and solar energy are some of the elements in a so-called Strategic Energy Technology Plan from the European Commission – together with heat generation from waste and novel housing insulation inspired by space technology. The heart of such visions, however, needs to be a ”smart” grid that allows the various sources to be integrated smoothly. When the wind fails, for example, other sources should take over.
According to a draft of the plan obtained by Reuters, between 25 and 30 EU cities will be selected to test smart grid and new energy technology solutions:
”These Smart Cities will be the nuclei from which smart networks, a new generation of buildings and alternative transport means will develop.”
Green organizations are disappointed with the report, because it also mentions new coal technologies – primarily carbon capture and storage (CCS) – and new nuclear technology as part of the solution.
”The overall message (of the plan) is inconsistent as money poured into coal and nuclear will only prolong Europe’s unhealthy dependence on an inflexible, centralized energy network. We must focus on building a decentralized and flexible energy system that can handle fluctuations in renewable energy and balance supply and demand,” Greenpeace campaigner Frauke Thies tells Reuters.
| Type: | NORMAL |
| Company: | COP 15 |
| Country: | Denmark |
| Url: | http://en.cop15.dk/news/view+news?newsid=2122 |