Solutions from the Ground Up
Simple, low cost actions can have a big impact, so its best to start with energy conservation and efficiency. Then make maximum use of alternative forms of energy e.g., passive lighting, biomass, and gas. Only then does it make sense to investigate renewable energy options like micro-hydro or solar PV (photovoltaic) panels.
The ground step on the energy pyramid is the simplest: Energy Analysis. Take a look at equipment currently in use. Does it have a regular maintenance schedule? Is it in good working order? Is equipment being run even when not in use? It is very difficult to save energy and money if equipment is not properly maintained or is overtaxed.
The second step on the pyramid is Energy Conservation. Simple behavioural changes can make a long lasting (and immediate) impact on the amount of fuel and electricity used. Simply by turning off unneeded lights, fans, and equipment, and adjusting the thermostat, savings can be achieved.
Energy Efficiency is the third step on the energy pyramid. By taking the human element out of the process (such as installing automatic timers), it is ensured that the lights will be turned off, and the fans will only come on when needed. Upgrading to equipment that is energy efficient (such as Energy Star© washers or NEMA Premium© motors) requires an initial investment, but the quality and longevity of the equipment is usually worth it.
The fourth step in the pyramid is Time-of-Use Management. This is the second to last step, and where dedication to changing behavior impacts not only on bills but the greater community as well. By running as much equipment as possible during off-peak hours, demand charges will decrease, often significantly. Not only will the farm benefit from smaller bills, but the community at large will benefit as well. Less usage during peak hours means that that power stations will not have to struggle to meet needs, and will emit less pollution in its attempts to keep up with the demand.
At the top of the energy pyramid is the final measure: Renewable Energy. Simply put, renewable energy is manufactured from naturally replenishing sources, such as solar and wind power, hydroelectricity, and bio-fuels like methane derived from manure or landfill gases, and corn-based ethanol. Conversion to renewable resources can be a costly investment, but in the long run the payback could be huge.
This was adapted from http://www.ensave.com/assets/files/The%20Energy%20Pyramid%20Solutions%20from%20the%20Ground%20Up.pdf http://www.niwa.co.nz/our-science/energy/publications/all/csu/2008-23/biogas, and is intended only as a quick introduction to the concept. The energy pyramid was designed by EnSave in 2007 as an illustration to help others understand the process of using energy efficiently. EnSave developed this tool as a result of its 17 years’ experience designing and implementing energy efficiency programs.
Posted on September 9th, 2009 :: Filed under Uncategorized
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September 11th, 2009
Without getting into specific source’s of energy I was more trying to point out the hierarchical need to undertake conservation, then energy efficiency, then renewable generation from a cost and energy reduction point of view. Conservation and energy efficiency generally result in very large savings, only once these easily obtainable … Read more savings have been made does it make sense to invest in alternative fuel sources (from a cost perspective). This post was adapted from a document that was originally targeted at farms. So I imagine they have biogas generated from on-site organic ‘waste’. At a societal level we must however invest in renewable energies simultaneously, as it will take time for the renewable energy sector to scale to the required scale.
June 20th, 2010
Renewable energy is the future, why depend on fossil fuels when we can go renewable.-*`