 panel quickly determined it to be a foundational step in the goal of achieving high levels of renewable energy. Two critical factors need to be understood: First, U.S. buildings use 42 percent of the nation’s energy—more than any country except China and the U.S. Unfortunately, most of that energy is wasted. By implementing currently available, straightforward energy efficiency techniques we can make 2050’s buildings use 38 percent less energy than officially projected.
Second, the electric sector has enjoyed growth in demand in all but four years since 1949. However, the rate of increase has been steadily declining. Implementing end use energy efficiency measures in buildings, industrial processes and transportation options can turn the historic growth rate of electricity demand negative. Therefore, the key to achieving high levels of renewable energy by 2050 is not only constructing more solar and wind farms, it is also committing to highly efficient buildings, vehicles and factories.
Although the panel agreed a blend of both centralized and distributed resources are required to achieve a future dominated by renewables, the group felt the most significant and striking change is the future role and prevalence of distributed resources.
When compared to centralized generation—both conventional and renewable—the benefits are clear. Distributed resources are smaller in unit size, which results in shorter construction times. They are typically located closer to demand, which reduces the need for long transmission lines to connect remote centralized generators. In addition, with distributed generation, capacity can be built out incrementally—more closely aligned with customer demand projections—which can ultimately reduce financial risk. Considering that the distributed generation market grew to $60 billion globally in 2010, a 91 percent increase from the previous year, it is not surprising that it commands a leading role in a future dominated by renewables.
Reflecting on the panel and SXSW Eco week in general I am energized by the level of excitement, engagement, collaboration and concentered effort that are clearly focused on combating climate change and implementing the new energy era. More importantly, the discussions heard in the hallways, on the panels and throughout the event proved that not only are we ready to create the new energy era—we are craving it.
The timing couldn’t be better for RMI to publically launch Reinventing Fire next week. This blueprint to the new energy era shows how we can transition to an efficient, renewable and distributed electric system by 2050.