58
Sustainability and the built environment
methods of energy consumption over renewable forms. Even though renewable power
generation seems to be the ideal long-term solution, reforming the balance of energy
related subsidy presents difficult social and economic challenges. This has been
reflected in both a general reluctance to change and conflicting policy decisions.
Renewable power generation currently contributes only a small percentage to
the global energy mix. Starting from this low base it can only be really effective in
contributing to long-term solutions. Even so, the renewable energy sector is currently
experiencing exponential growth, which should lead to an increasing share of the
global energy supply.
Table 2 - renewable energy fuel sources
Energy/ Technology advantages Disadvantages
source
Biomass/ Heating • Based on existing, • Security of fuel supply.
Bio-diesel proven technologies.
• Cost of fuel.
• Provides both heating
• Delivery of fuel.
and hot water.
• First generation biofuels
• Second generation uses
now largely discredited.
waste biomass for fuel,
not primary agricultural
• Agricultural land used for
land.
fuel.
Combined heat • Greater efficiency. • Not currently reliable for
and power small schemes.
• Needs appropriate heat
load to be efficient.
Solar Hot water • Proven technologies. • Size of roof space required,
panels
• Straightforward to
particularly if flats.
retrofit. • Intermittent daytime
• Cost effective.
supply.
• Low maintenance.
• No emissions.
Photovoltaics • Generates electricity. • Cost.
(PV)
• Building integrated.
• Embodied energy.
• No emissions.
• Intermittent daytime
• No running costs.
•
supply.
Requirement for
materials.
Wind Wind turbine • Cost effective. • Achieving planning
• Proven technology.
approval.
• Can generate significant
• Noise.
amount of electricity. • Visual intrusion.
• Visible statement of • Vibration.
pride.
• Intermittent supply.
• No emissions.
(continued)
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