Title: Implementing sustainable energy - four case studies

Authors: Pekka Peura; Hanna Kuittinen; Lindsay Knuckey; Lisa Goodall; László Dinya

Addresses: Levón Institute, University of Vaasa, PB 700, 65101 Vaasa, Finland ' TECNALIA – Innovation Strategies Division, Parque Tecnológico, Edificio 204, E-48170 Zamudio (Bizkaia), Spain ' Cornwall Development Company, South Wheal Crofty, Bickford Hse, Pool, Redruth TR15 3QG, UK ' Cornwall Development Company, South Wheal Crofty, Bickford Hse, Pool, Redruth TR15 3QG, UK ' Károly Róbert College, 3200 Gyöngyös, Gólya u. 4/7, Hungary

Abstract: This article aims to increase knowledge and find the best practices on how sustainable energy (SE) can be boosted and implemented at a regional level. It presents the main results from the RESGen (RES Generation - from research infrastructure to SE and reduction of CO₂ emissions) project and the procedure developed within the project, which aims to support regionally comprehensive implementation of SE involving all the main stakeholders. Physical prerequisites to support the transition of the energy sector towards SE exist. The RES potential is vast, the economics, especially regional impacts, are feasible, general perceptions are positive, technologies are evolving and the majority of stakeholders support this agenda. There are however barriers slowing the process. The RESGen procedure provides a structured and strategic approach for the shift towards SE.

Keywords: sustainable energy; RES; renewable energy sources; energy self-sufficiency; regional implementation process; RESGen; sustainable development; sustainability; CO2; carbon dioxide; carbon emissions.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSE.2014.058516

International Journal of Sustainable Economy, 2014 Vol.6 No.1, pp.19 - 44

Published online: 17 Jun 2014 *

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