The Paradox in Green Energy

The whole world is currently investing heavily in developing capabilities to better extract power out of renewable energy sources such as the sun, wind, and geothermal resources. This, in line with the aim of curbing the use of non-renewable energy sources such as coal and oil. In line with this, the global electronics community is doing its part in developing cutting edge and innovative technologies to further cut down power consumption, leading to power efficient products.

However, amid all these flurry of developments toward the overall goal of providing green energy for everyone, it is important to note that even consumers have a role to play in this audacious goal. The practice of the three Rs—reduce, recycle, and reuse—now more than ever should become second nature in each and everyone. And environmental and government agencies should step up their efforts in trying to increase awareness among the masses by educating them about the energy problem of the world, and how everyone can do his part in preserving the sustainability of the living world.

BUT THERE IS A PARADOX
Indeed, improving energy efficiency will reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. However, the paradox is that energy efficiency improvements also tend to increase consumption of energy. One common example is a fuel-efficient car, whose goal is to make travel cheaper. Although car owners can definitely save on fuel, what could really happen is that they will tend to drive farther—thus offsetting the potential energy and money savings.

For another example, consider a house that uses a solar panel system as one of its sources of power. Let’s say the same house uses LEDs for all of its lighting applications. While energy consumption in that particular house tends to be minimal, what could happen is that the homeowner may tend to install additional power-consuming devices and appliances—thereby defeating the purpose of these products and technologies.

Everyone definitely has a role in this green power revolution. The leading electronics companies’ developments will be wasted if consumers will not value the underlying cause of these new technologies. For their part, these companies should not only develop new products, but change their own business practices as well, especially when it comes to manufacturing, with green initiatives being among the top priorities.