Our research is guided by three themes. All of our work addresses one or more of them. Of course, energy conservation is the focus of all three. When we say 'energy conservation', we imply meeting our energy needs by adhering to the following hierarchy: - Using less energy;
- Using renewable energy;
- Supplying energy efficiently.
Against this background, our three research themes are outlined below:
|
| Within and outside the UK, a wide range of policies, programmes and plans are in place that aim to increase energy conservation in different economic sectors. Work to assess the impact of these and examine the potential for wider application of successful initiatives can result in ideas for new directions in policy activity. The research team’s work in this area focuses largely, but not exclusively, on policies implemented within the European Union. |
|
|
| There are a range of environmental, social and economic benefits that can accrue as a result of energy conservation. Environmental benefits range from improvements in local air quality to the alleviation of global climate change. In this area, the main focus of our research is on the role of energy conservation in meeting carbon dioxide emissions reduction targets. Socially and economically, energy use has a number of key impacts. For example, inefficient use of energy in the home is one of the main contributory factors to the problem of fuel poverty, and inefficient buildings may further exacerbate cold and damp-related ill-health. Energy conservation can alleviate these problems. Programmes of investment in energy conservation can result in increased demand for labour, particularly in the construction industry. The research team’s work focuses on integrated policies that deliver environmental, social and economic benefits simultaneously. |
|
|
| Under changing market conditions, the role of governments, businesses, households and other stakeholders in delivering energy conservation is evolving. Our research considers these changes, and the improvement of energy services in this context. Under this theme, we further examine the conditions necessary to ensure stakeholders develop awareness of and are able to implement energy conservation, as well as investigating the barriers to and opportunities for stakeholders to implement energy conservation. We also investigate the lessons to be learned from progress to date which can inform future policy development and delivery. |
|
|
|