Abstract
This article aims to increase knowledge and find the best practices on how sustainable energy management (SEM) can be boosted and implemented at a regional level. It presents the main results from the RESGen (RES Generation – From Research Infrastructure to Sustainable Energy and Reduction of CO2 Emissions) project (subsidized by the EU in 2009-2012) and the procedure developed within the project, which aims to support regionally comprehensive implementation of SEM involving all the main stakeholders. Physical prerequisites to support the transition of the energy sector towards SEM exist. The renewable energy sources (RES) potential is vast, the economics, especially regional impacts, are feasible, general perceptions are positive, technologies are evolving and the majority of stakeholders support this agenda. There are however barriers slowing the process. The RESGen procedure provides a structured and strategic approach for the shift towards SEM.
Highlights
This article aims to increase knowledge and find the best practices on how sustainable energy management (SEM) can be boosted and implemented at a regional level
This paper presents the main results from the RESGen (RES Generation – From Research Infrastructure to Sustainable Energy and Reduction of CO2 Emissions; EU Regions of Knowledge; 2010-2012) project within which a documented ‘RESGen procedure’ was prepared and used
The analysis aimed to identify alignment and complementarity between the regional SEM R+D supply, demand and policies
Summary
This article aims to increase knowledge and find the best practices on how sustainable energy management (SEM) can be boosted and implemented at a regional level. SEM is not normal business and cannot be understood merely as economic transactions and ‘business as usual’ based on the following reasoning: The construction of energy infrastructure has been subsidised by public funding. It has become more of a commercial activity following the privatisation of power plants and networks (originally publicly subsidised). The prevailing large actors tend to prevent any development that does not support their own business (Lund H., 2010) This means that RES based solutions are fighting against existing energy structures. SE and RES based systems require often a total change from fossil fuels to new raw materials The shift towards these structures, different from the prevailing system, will be a long-term process. Conscious strategies and programmes can boost this development, which has been the focus in constructing the RESGen procedure
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
