Energy [R]evolution

Greenpeace Energy [R]evolution outlines a global plan for a sustainable renewable economic future. It shows us how we can get from where we are now, to where we need to be to avoid a climate change disaster. It was developed with specialists from the Institute of Technical Thermodynamics at the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and more than 30 scientists and engineers from universities, institutes and the renewable energy industry around the world.

The energy [r]evolution scenario demonstrates how global carbon emissions from the energy and transport sectors can peak by 2015 and be cut by over 50% by 2050.

The scenario is based on proven technologies and five key principles:

1. Equity and fairness
2. Respect natural limits
3. Phase out dirty, unsustainable energy
4. Implement renewable solutions and decentralise energy systems
5. Decouple growth from fossil fuel use

The Energy [R]evolution uses a three step approach:

Step 1: Electrical efficiency

• Exploit all technical potential for electrical efficiency
via technical standards

Step 2: Structural changes

• Change the way we produce energy in large centralised power stations towards a decentralised energy system, using large-scale renewable resources that use locally available energy sources such as wind, sun or geothermal
• Cogeneration – end the huge amounts of waste energy via cooling towers

Step 3: Energy-efficient transport

• Build up efficient public transport systems
• Implement efficient cars, trucks, etc.