Lecture: The Gentle Art of Energy Conservation

Introduction

• Energy conservation is not about "freezing in the dark".
• Dependence on fossil fuels leads to acid rain, greenhouse warming, and smog.
• Using less energy and switching to alternatives makes environmental and economic sense.

The Energy Crisis of the 1970s

• Oil prices spiked due to Middle East politics.
• This economic shock forced companies like Volvo to innovate.

Volvo's Light Component Project (LCP)

• Aim: Create a car with minimal energy consumption.
• Focus on weight reduction using lightweight materials: magnesium, aluminum, plastics.
• Developed a highly efficient diesel engine.
• Achieved 65 mpg, with potential for 100 mpg.
• Only four cars were built due to dropping oil prices.

Energy Efficiency Technologies

• Amory Lovins' Suitcase: Contains electricity-saving technologies.
  • Compact fluorescent lamps, super-insulating windows, efficient motors.
• Economic incentive: Utilities save money by helping customers conserve energy.

Osage, Iowa: A Case Study in Energy Conservation

• Headed by Wes Birdzall, the town cut energy use by 25%.
• Free energy surveys, educational programs, and efficient installations.
• Infrared images of homes encouraged residents to insulate and save energy.

Energy Use in Developing Countries

• Example: Karnataka, India
  • Traditional cooking over open fires is inefficient and unhealthy.
  • Efficient stove designs reduce fuel use by half.

Renewable Energy and Biofuels

• Brazil's alcohol fuel program using sugarcane.
  • Large-scale renewable fuel program to reduce oil dependency.
  • Bagasse, a byproduct, used to generate electricity.

Nuclear Power

• Once seen as the future, now controversial.
• New experimental reactors in Germany focus on inherent safety.

Renewable Energy in Bornholm, Denmark

• Attempt to stop using imported oil using wind and biomass.
• Faced challenges with taxation and economic viability.

Conclusion

• Fossil fuels are cheap but environmentally harmful.
• Alternatives exist but need to be economically attractive.
• Individuals can make a difference through conservation practices.

Funding

• Major funding for "Race to Save the Planet" by Annenberg CPB Project and others.

Additional Resources

• Global Ecology Handbook available.
• Transcript of the program available for purchase.