CoRM- Energy Management

Question 1

How has the UK’s energy mix changed?.

Answer 1

The UK’s energy mix has shifted significantly over the years. Historically, the UK relied heavily on coal and oil. However, with the discovery of North Sea gas, the use of gas increased. In recent years, there has been a substantial move towards renewable energy sources like wind and solar, driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions and meet climate targets. The last deep coal mine closed in 2015, and all coal-fired power stations are set to close by 2025.

Question 2

What are the environmental advantages of using less coal and gas?

Answer 2

• Lower greenhouse gas emissions: Coal and gas are major sources of CO2 and other greenhouse gases. Reducing their use helps mitigate climate change
• Improved air quality: Burning coal and gas releases pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
• Reduced environmental degradation: Coal mining and gas extraction can cause significant environmental damage, including habitat destruction and water pollution.

Question 3

What are the environmental advantages of using more renewable energy sources?

Answer 3

• Reduced carbon emissions: Renewable energy sources produce little to no greenhouse gases during operation.
• Sustainable energy: Unlike fossil fuels, renewable resources are virtually inexhaustible.
• Lower environmental impact: Renewable energy systems generally have a smaller environmental footprint compared to fossil fuel-based systems.

Question 4

What economic problems are created by moving away from fossil fuels?

Answer 4

• High initial costs: Renewable energy infrastructure often requires significant upfront investment.
• Job losses in fossil fuel industries: Workers in coal, oil, and gas sectors may face unemployment or need retraining for new roles.
• Energy price volatility: As renewable energy sources become more prevalent, there may be fluctuations in energy prices due to their intermittent nature.

Question 5

Why do some countries have an energy deficit?

Answer 5

• Rapid population growth: Increased demand for energy can outstrip supply.
• Inadequate infrastructure: Poorly developed energy infrastructure can hinder efficient energy distribution.
• Political instability: Conflicts and political unrest can disrupt energy production and supply chains.

Question 6

How can energy supplies be made more sustainable?

Answer 6

• Investing in renewable energy: Increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy mix.
• Energy efficiency measures: Implementing energy-saving technologies and practices.
• Smart grids: Using advanced grid technologies to manage energy distribution more efficiently.

Question 7

How has the Western Harbor district in Malmo achieved sustainability?

Answer 7

• The Western Harbor in Malmo is powered by 100% locally-produced renewable energy sources such as wind turbines and solar panels.
• This transformation from an industrial area to a sustainable residential and business district highlights the potential for urban areas to adopt renewable energy on a large scale.

Question 8

What sustainable energy initiatives are present in the Hyllie district of Malmo?

Answer 8

• The Hyllie district integrates various renewable energy sources and features a smart grid platform that optimizes district heating and electricity flows.
• Hyllie aims to meet almost 40% of its electricity needs from solar energy and serves as a testbed for smart energy solutions, showcasing the importance of innovation in sustainable urban development.

Question 9

What are the key components of Malmo’s Climate Contract for Hyllie that contribute to sustainable energy supplies?

Answer 9

• The Climate Contract for Hyllie includes the use of renewable and recycled energy, implementation of smart building technology, and the development of sustainable transportation solutions like bike and ride facilities.
• This comprehensive approach demonstrates how coordinated efforts between local governments, energy companies, and other stakeholders can lead to more sustainable energy practices.

Question 10

Where is Malmo located

Answer 10

Sweden

Question 11

What’s a good sentence starter to introduce Malmo?

Answer 11

Malmo’s Western Harbour is one of the world’s best examples of sustainable urban development.

Question 12

Malmo

Homes and workplaces facts
- renewable energy
- solar tubes
- photovoltaic

Answer 12

• All 1000 buildings in the district use 100% renewble energy
• Solar tubes on the outside of buildings produce hot water which can be stored in aquifers.
• energy comes from photovoltaic panels on roofs, a 2MW wind turbine, and biogas from local sewage and rubbish

Question 13

Malmo

Transport Facts
- buses
- cyclists
- buses and water taxis

Answer 13

• From 2019, all buses have run on a mixture of biogas and natural gas
• Cyclists have priority at crossroads
• Buses and water taxis provide frequent public transport.