The Process of Energy Efficiency Technology Change

Many readers may be unfamiliar with the way economists typically view the process of technological change, thus it is useful to first establish this common understanding. Furthermore, to understand the potential for public policy to affect energy efficiency, it is also necessary to understand the process through which technology evolves: invention, innovation, energy diffusion, and product use. (more…)

Modernizing Bioenergy – Biomass as Energy Source

modernizing bioenergy biomass
Estimation of the future technical potential of biomass as an energy source is dependent on assumptions with respect to land availability and productivity as well as conversion technologies. With the emergence of energy crops as the major source of biomass fuel, land use conflicts, especially in relation to food production, may arise. However, with efficient agricultural practices, plantations and crops could supply a large proportion of energy needs, with residues playing a smaller role without compromising food production or further intensifying agricultural practices. (more…)