A shift to renewable energy is ‘hopeless’ without efficiencies, environmentalist says

Explorer and environmentalist Bertrand Piccard has emphasized the importance of reducing energy waste, stating that transitioning to renewables without improving efficiency is futile.

Piccard highlighted that around three-quarters of the world’s energy is wasted, attributing this waste to inappropriate behavior and inefficient systems or infrastructures.

He stressed the need to focus on cutting energy waste to make the transition to renewable energy sources more effective.

Piccard also pointed out the oversight of some countries in only considering wind and solar energy as renewable sources, neglecting alternatives like biogas and geothermal energy.

A recent report by the European Commission revealed disparities in the consumption of renewable energies, with bioenergy dominating at 60% and biogas only making up 10% of this share.

Piccard warned that the focus on increasing production without addressing consumption and considering various renewable energy sources could hinder green energy targets.

He emphasized the importance of energy efficiency and utilizing a diverse range of renewable energies to achieve energy independence and competitiveness.

Piccard discussed concerns regarding the oversupply of Chinese solar panels to the European market, acknowledging the impact on domestic industries while recognizing the cost-effectiveness of solar energy.

He highlighted the potential benefits of Chinese solar panels for generating cheaper electricity and producing hydrogen locally in Europe.

Piccard expressed gratitude towards China for driving down the cost of solar energy, leading to advancements in renewable energy technologies.