Sometimes we come across an idea that resonates so powerfully, it immediately shifts our understanding. This happened to me a couple of weeks ago when I read an article entitled “Energy citizenship: Europe’s communities forging a low-carbon future”. It’s a story about the many towns and villages in Europe that have installed their own renewable energy stations in order to power their communities. With one effort, these communities reduced their carbon footprints, decreased air pollution, cut energy bills, and secured their energy supply. The latter two are especially poignant as the invasion of Ukraine continues to disrupt Europe’s energy mix.
I saw an interesting report about a community in Florida that generated its own solar energy, as well, they designed their community to be flood resistant (streets were built lower than homes to turn them into conduits for flood waters that would not likely rise to the level of the houses.
As a result, the homes did not flood and the community did not lose power after Ian wiped out communities all around them.
Thanks Alan. That is very cool. Always baffled me that Floridians continued to rebuild right on the coast after hurricanes wiped them out. Glad to hear about this community making very clever choices.
And here's a story of a New England group building a solar grid
You've found your way to the spot I often feel I'm in. I'd love to get involved in something, but I lack the time, expertise, and frankly, the energy, to spearhead something this complex. We do what can at home, and other than travel have incredibly small footprints. Sadly, as I've said before, I don't believe that's enough, but the idea of doing something local is appealing because of the scope and scale.
I wonder how much of the lifting these "advisory organizations" do? I read the linked article about the guy who researched them, but there wasn't much on what exactly these organization offer in terms of service to a community interested in pursuing a local renewable energy project, or if they have any tips on how to get something like that started. I Googled around, but I didn't find much. If there were organizations set up to help communities do things like this, I'll bet adoption would be higher. Of course, funding would also be a an issue. Very interesting concept, though.
I reckon the advisory organizations vary greatly. And each may also offer a varied level of support. I also agree that more guiding companies would increase uptake. Funding is an issue of course. But many communities have chosen the large upfront costs knowing it would pay be cheaper over the longer run. Now there's a few niches for eager entrepreneurs.
But I'm concerned my post didn't convey very well that this acceptance of "not becoming a household name activist" has given me energy for the efforts I do make. It has helped me to feel even more committed to doing my own bit and helping others to do theirs. While I know that the post described a very personal journey, I was hoping to encourage others to not be mired down in the vastness of the problem.
Perhaps, though, my very frustration at not conveying my message perfectly is a mini-version of the not good enough angst. The very fact that you went and searched for advisory organizations is a win, for both of us. Yeah Bill. Rather than lament the lack of advisory boards or our hesitancy to take on a massive project, I will endeavor to celebrate that we're learning and opening up our thoughts to other avenues.
I saw an interesting report about a community in Florida that generated its own solar energy, as well, they designed their community to be flood resistant (streets were built lower than homes to turn them into conduits for flood waters that would not likely rise to the level of the houses.
As a result, the homes did not flood and the community did not lose power after Ian wiped out communities all around them.
https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/02/us/solar-babcock-ranch-florida-hurricane-ian-climate
Thanks Alan. That is very cool. Always baffled me that Floridians continued to rebuild right on the coast after hurricanes wiped them out. Glad to hear about this community making very clever choices.
And here's a story of a New England group building a solar grid
https://grist.org/beacon/
You've found your way to the spot I often feel I'm in. I'd love to get involved in something, but I lack the time, expertise, and frankly, the energy, to spearhead something this complex. We do what can at home, and other than travel have incredibly small footprints. Sadly, as I've said before, I don't believe that's enough, but the idea of doing something local is appealing because of the scope and scale.
I wonder how much of the lifting these "advisory organizations" do? I read the linked article about the guy who researched them, but there wasn't much on what exactly these organization offer in terms of service to a community interested in pursuing a local renewable energy project, or if they have any tips on how to get something like that started. I Googled around, but I didn't find much. If there were organizations set up to help communities do things like this, I'll bet adoption would be higher. Of course, funding would also be a an issue. Very interesting concept, though.
Interesting Bill. And thanks for the thoughts.
I reckon the advisory organizations vary greatly. And each may also offer a varied level of support. I also agree that more guiding companies would increase uptake. Funding is an issue of course. But many communities have chosen the large upfront costs knowing it would pay be cheaper over the longer run. Now there's a few niches for eager entrepreneurs.
But I'm concerned my post didn't convey very well that this acceptance of "not becoming a household name activist" has given me energy for the efforts I do make. It has helped me to feel even more committed to doing my own bit and helping others to do theirs. While I know that the post described a very personal journey, I was hoping to encourage others to not be mired down in the vastness of the problem.
Perhaps, though, my very frustration at not conveying my message perfectly is a mini-version of the not good enough angst. The very fact that you went and searched for advisory organizations is a win, for both of us. Yeah Bill. Rather than lament the lack of advisory boards or our hesitancy to take on a massive project, I will endeavor to celebrate that we're learning and opening up our thoughts to other avenues.
Always good to hear from you.
You are making a difference in so many ways, Pru! You are my local eco-hero. Marney
Right back at ya Marney. :^)