Seminar: PureNERGY Alternative Energy Options
On Thursday, 18th November, Business Bermuda hosted the second free luncheon seminar in the series of six. Vice President and General Manager of PureNERGY Renewables, Ltd., Kevon Makell [pictured] addressed an audience of over 20 on the topic of Alternative Energy.
One of the key issues raised was the need for all Bermudians to work together with BELCO and Independent Power Producers, like PureNERGY, in an effort to ensure that secure and reliable power supply options could be explored to affordably reduce Bermuda’s reliance on fossil fuels. Alternative energy can work in Bermuda in concert with conventional power supply, but energy education and changes in consumption patterns must occur to change the mindset of many Bermudians, which events such as this are designed to do. Mr. Makell began by making the point that there are major issues concerning energy consumption in Bermuda today.
First, the security and reliability of the power supply in Bermuda has been consistently good and all Bermudians have enjoyed a robust economy as a result of this reliable supply. It is clear, however, that an ongoing reliance on fossil fuel energy resources is not sustainable long-term. Whilst the expiration date of fossil fuel supply cannot be accurately forecasted, it has been predicted by some that fossil fuels will be diminished or scarce as a result of declining production expectations, with the result that our children and grandchildren are likely to be affected by the market price volatility of these fossil fuel resources. The cost implications of these supply issues create a sustainability issue that many experts in Bermuda agree is not good for future businesses and consumers in Bermuda.
Second, there are measurable cost savings to be made by conserving energy and improving the energy efficiency of your home and office. This can be as simple as switching lights and appliances off, and should also be considered when purchasing new renewable energy products. One participant highlighted that plasma televisions consume a lot of energy, but there are alternatives available. By considering energy efficient appliances, including light bulbs, you are not only helping to conserve energy, which is positive for the environment, but it will also reduce your bills.
Mr. Makell said, “The message is clear that we need to be realistic about what we can do today, but we can no longer ignore the issues around alternative energy for Bermuda’s Sustainable Future. We must all work together to change the way Bermudians think and behave when it comes to energy production and consumption. Alternative energy options are no longer purely the playground for the passionate environmentalists; they are necessary options that everyone needs to consider. PureNERGY regularly conducts energy efficiency audits in homes and businesses in Bermuda, and there are many ways we can help consumers save energy as they also improve the environment.”
He continued, “I was delighted to be able to speak to such an informed and passionate audience, and it highlighted the issue that we have much to do to engage with everyone in Bermuda to affect change.”
The seminar included a brief introduction to alternative energy products available today in Bermuda, such as solar-thermal hot water heaters, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and micro-wind generation. One of the participants told the group that they had converted their home to energy efficient products and alternative energy resources, which had resulted in significant savings and was expected to pay for itself within four years.
Cheryl Packwood, CEO, Business Bermuda commented, “I am delighted that the seminars arranged by the Local Awareness Committee are so well attended and well received. We look forward to the next event on January 20th next year, which will tackle the topic of funding education. I wish to thank the Chair of the Committee, Ms. Cynthia Wright for her commitment and hard work; she has achieved so much in just four months at the helm.”
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Category: All, Environment
