Energy use management—An appropriate technology

Abstract

The central thesis of this work is that the proper management of energy usage by the end user can have immediate and far reaching benefits for humanity. These benefits can occur within the next few years, require low capital investments, and can be implemented by individuals, institutions, or governments immediately. In contrast, new energy supply options yield benefits not now but in the future, require mammoth capital investments, and depend on complex governmental policy decisions before any action can be taken. Implementation must be thought of in terms of decades rather than years. Much stronger national energy management programs are therefore warranted in the industrialized nations and in developing countries. Effective national programs may be difficult to achieve politically. In this case citizens should initiate actions at the community level to encourage local energy management programs. The course of human and economic events in the world with respect to the availability of energy has further emphasized the global priority for improving energy utilization patterns in the future. The ideas and concepts expressed herein reflect vital issues and perspectives which have yet to be eclipsed by time.