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Some of the best practices in the field of affordable and clean energy are:
Researching the best affordable and clean energy sources for your unique geographic location. Different regions may have different potentials and challenges for using renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal and biofuels. Therefore, it is important to conduct a feasibility study and a cost-benefit analysis before choosing the most suitable and sustainable option for your area.
Committing to sourcing 100% of your company’s energy from clean energy sources. This can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money, enhance reputation, and attract customers and investors who value environmental and social responsibility. You can also join initiatives and networks that support the global transition to renewable energy, such as RE100, which is a group of influential businesses committed to 100% renewable electricity.
Utilizing the recent shift to remote work and encouraging telecommuting days to reduce net energy demand. Working from home can reduce the need for commuting, office space, lighting, heating, cooling, and other energy-intensive activities. This can lower your carbon footprint, save costs, and improve productivity and well-being. You can also implement energy efficiency measures in your home office, such as using LED bulbs, smart thermostats, power strips, and energy-saving modes on your devices.
Investing in further renewable energy research and development. Renewable energy technologies are constantly evolving and improving, offering new opportunities and solutions for various sectors and applications. By investing in research and development, you can contribute to the innovation and advancement of clean energy, as well as gain a competitive edge in the market. You can also collaborate with other stakeholders, such as universities, research institutes, governments, and civil society organizations, to share knowledge and resources.
Expanding and upgrading energy services for developing countries. Many people in developing countries still lack access to modern electricity and clean cooking fuels, which limits their human and economic development, as well as causes health and environmental problems. By expanding and upgrading energy infrastructure and technology in these regions, you can help to provide affordable and clean energy for all, in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You can also support local communities and entrepreneurs to develop their own renewable energy solutions that are appropriate for their needs and contexts.
Some of the innovations in the field of affordable and clean energy are:
Twelve, a company that uses electricity and carbon dioxide to produce ethylene, a chemical that can be used to make fuels, plastics, and other products. This process can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a circular economy for carbon.
BlocPower, a company that provides financing, engineering, and installation services for clean energy projects in low-income communities. The company uses smart technology and data analytics to identify the best solutions for each building, such as solar panels, heat pumps, or LED lighting.
AES, a company that operates one of the world's largest battery storage systems in California. The system can store up to 400 megawatts of electricity from renewable sources, such as wind and solar, and deliver it to the grid when needed. This can improve grid reliability and reduce carbon emissions.
Heliogen, a company that uses artificial intelligence and computer vision to control a large array of mirrors that concentrate sunlight to create extreme heat. The heat can be used to generate electricity, produce hydrogen, or power industrial processes that normally rely on fossil fuels.
SolarGaps, a company that produces smart solar blinds that can generate electricity from sunlight. The blinds can also adjust their angle automatically to optimize the solar output and reduce the indoor temperature. The electricity can be used to power devices or feed back to the grid.