According to the report the majority desire to have a positive impact on the environment and recognize the government's desire to reduce C02 emissions.
With the public and Government in agreement, what is the dilemma?
Only 32 per cent of respondents are aware of the Department of Energy's 'Green Paper' and only 39 per cent know of the rebate programme for solar PV (photovoltaic) installations.
We can only hope that the solar water heating rebate programme will garner greater recognition than PV because of:
1. Lower cost, 20 per cent of PV.
2. Four times greater efficiency than PV.
3. Size suitable for every home, only one or two panels verses 20 or more.
4. Comparatively, larger rebate to greatly accelerate the installation of solar water heating systems. The report states 81 per cent of respondents believe that Bermudians have a duty to reduce energy consumption.
If Bermudians feel it is their duty to reduce consumption then isn't it the Government's role to assist transitioning from fossil fuel to renewable energy sources?
The Department of Energy has achieved significant accomplishments, including the release of a comprehensive 'Green Paper', a PV rebate initiative, a solar hot water heating (also known as solar thermal), rebate initiative and a 'White Paper'; impressive actions for a new department.
These accomplishments will be all for naught if the public remains uninformed.
Bermudians have three incentives to adopt sustainable practices and technologies:
1. Rising energy prices.
2. Reduction of Green-house gases (CO2), which contribute to climate change.
3. Government incentives.
As energy prices rise, the hope is Bermudians will seek alternative energy sources to reduce costs. But why wait? The knowledge, technology, and incentives are all in place.
The Department of Energy should be applauded for their efforts in support of alternative energy adoption, but now is the time for the Government to shout from the roof tops: "Bermuda is going green and we will help you pay for it".
In February, the Sustainable Round Table, supported by Green Ventures Bermuda Ltd., held the Sustainable Living Summit for a Greener Bermuda.
This educational event showcased solar technology and its suitability in Bermuda.
At the event professor Stephen Harrison of Queen's University, Kingston, outlined what Bermudians should be looking for in solar thermal products.
"Bermudians should look for tested and approved systems, not just parts assembled at the job site. Companies like EnerWorks have systems based on over 20 years of research and have optimized components creating highly efficient and reliable systems that are safer and come with approvals from testing agencies like CSA, IAPMO, SRCC and Energy Star."
Professor Harrison also stated: "Solar panels in Bermuda need proven overheat protection and safety features like anti-scald valves and back flush mechanisms to prevent system clogging due to sediment."
The EnerWorks system is proven to exceed these international standards for safety, reliability and performance and is the right choice for Bermudians.
Information events, like the Summit, demonstrate the interest in environmental technology and solidify the belief of Bermudians in their duty to conserve and to make the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy.
The initiatives of the Government help to further support this transition moving towards energy independence and the creation of green jobs.
Green Ventures Bermuda Ltd. is an environmental products company supplying proven solar thermal and water conservation systems to Bermuda and the Caribbean. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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