The sun provides most of the energy used on the Earth. If we think beyond solar panels for making electricity: biological energy, such as sugars produced by photosynthesis in plants, sustains just about all of life on Earth. In the process, carbon dioxide is used and oxygen is produced. We […]
Energy
NBN Mark II – New Energy Network
The cost of energy is in many cases a significant burden to business (and many households). Unlike his predecessor Peter Costello, who does have an economics background and has often advocated for Australian businesses: that high fuel prices were an increased burden for businesses. Little has been said by […]
Carbon Tax – part 2 and Energy Security
Carbon Tax policy of the federal government lacks cohesive policy detail and vision to enable a clean energy future. The $23 tonne carbon tax is predominately aimed at providing compensation to the majority of Australians rather than establishing a clear pathway to a healthier economy and environment. The carbon […]
The benefits of privatisation of essential services are questionable
Private enterprise is primarily concerned with maximising profits, to increase the returns to shareholders; which makes the shares more attractive and increases the share price. This increases the value of the company concerned. The bonuses and remuneration paid to the company’s CEO and other executives are often based upon […]
Carbon Tax
The federal government’s announcement about the introduction of a Carbon Tax commencing 1st July 2012 is flawed. Initial details of their proposal, education of the Australian people and the goals of the scheme were void. We remain to see if the effects and impact to Australian people or business […]
Smart Meters Part Two – Privacy and security?
Regarding the implementation of smart meters, each stakeholder has different goals. Power companies are motivated to increase profits. Governments have targets to reduce greenhouse gases. Consumers wish for reliable and affordable energy supply. There is no doubt that electricity costs are rising and will continue to rise in the […]
Smart Meters Part One – Are they a smart idea?
As technology has permeated our lives and in many ways has enhanced our lives and made things much easier; we have also increasingly become dependant on technology. Computer system failures at banks and airport terminals have created chaos in our sophisticated world. The discovery of computer worm virus ‘Stuxnet’, targeting […]
Tri-generation – Smart power for cities
Remote coal-fired power stations are inefficient and highly polluting means to generate electricity. Only about one third of energy is actually converted into electricity. Coal fired power stations create immense amounts of heat, hence two thirds of the energy is lost in heat. So for every unit of electricity […]
Bio-fuel – Ethanol – fuel for the 21st Century
Brazil is a world leader in the adoption and manufacture of ethanol (primarily from sugarcane) as fuel for motorcycles, cars and light vehicles, which has been the result of government policy. Faced by the oil crisis of the 1970’s where 80% of Brazil’s oil consumption was imported. In 1975 […]
Cash for clunkers’ scheme – reducing automotive greenhouse gasses
The Federal Government’s scheme: of providing $400 million as a $2,000 Cleaner Car Rebate for owners of pre 1995 vehicles who upgrade their cars to new greenhouse rating six or higher vehicles; has some benefits but many concerns. Firstly, the funding of the scheme was being siphoned from renewable energy […]