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High Energy Costs Inspire Business Innovations

Posted: 08/03/2006

Today’s high energy costs could be a springboard into new thinking which can future-proof businesses. Every price hike affects the bottom line. That is the alarming reality for any business today as energy costs spiral upwards. In the UK Gas prices have risen 70% in the last 12 months with further increases expected.

The International Solar Cities Congress will provide a forum where businesses can hear about practical steps they can take to protect themselves from the economic uncertainty caused by rising energy costs now and the effects of climate change in the near future.

If the impacts of climate change have been hard for businesses to really understand, then the sudden increase of energy prices may just have focused minds at a critical moment in time and it could bring positive results.

“There is something going on in business thinking which is both new and exciting” says Professor Susan Roaf who is organising the Solar Cities Congress. I think the rising cost of energy is making businesses think about how they can minimise their risks in the future. And they are looking more and more at renewable energy and energy efficiency.”

With over 85% of greenhouse gases coming from cities and urban areas where businesses dominate consumption, there is a lot which can be done to protect economic well-being. The way businesses design their buildings, heat, light and power them are now vitally important. There’s an old business maxim: innovate or die. That is never truer than today with regard to energy in business.

“The use of solar power, smarter building design and managing energy use better are all going to be increasingly commonplace” says Professor Roaf. “But for many businesses, civic leaders and even governments it is often hard to see where to make a start. Ultimately I believe what we call Solar Cities will be the successes of the 21st century. They’re urban areas which optimise renewable energy and minimise energy use. It’s not a puritanical utopia. It is pure common sense.”

The International Solar Cities Congress will be held in Oxford from 3rd to 6th April. A unique gathering of people with a wealth of international talents and experience will be contributing to the 4-day event. You can find out more about the Solar Cities Congress 2006 and register to attend at www.solarcities.org.uk

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