|
|
|
SEA INITIATIVES
1) Energy Conservation and Crisis Prevention:
SEA is working to formulate and disseminate steps every homeowner and business can take to reduce electric load and consumption in order to ensure adequate electric supply during Summer 2001. SEA's first initiative is the SaveEnergy L.I. Campaign which is designed to help citizens to do their part to save energy. Through a concerted effort, Long Islanders can help prevent rolling blackouts, reduce the need for more polluting power generation, cut down on harmful air emission, and save money. Long Island has a tremendous potential for energy savings, which is unfortunately largely untapped. We waste considerable amounts of energy through inefficient buildings, air-conditioners, appliances, and lighting. SEA is working to help 'plug the leaks' in Long Island's energy reservoir.
2) Solar Power:
Long Island is one of the best places in the United States for solar electric panels. Our relatively high electric rates, considerable amount of sunshine, and the fact that we get the greatest amount of sunshine exactly during our peak demand times for electricity make us a prime candidate to turn free sunshine into clean and sustainable electricity. Photovoltaic (PV) panels generate electricity in an extremely reliable and environmentally benign way. They can be installed on rooftops and connected to the Island's electric grid. LIPA and New York State are now offering very attractive incentives to homeowners who choose this exiting and proven technology. SEA will work with the L.I. Solar Roofs Initiative and LIshines to educate the public on the advantages of solar power and will assist in informing interested homeowners and businesses.
3) Offshore Wind Feasibility Study:
SEA has been investigating potential energy projects for Long Island that would have broad applicability to our entire region. Wind power offers great potential as an ultra-clean, renewable source of electric power and presently this energy source is realizing rapid growth. In fact, during 1999 more than 3,600 MW of new wind generating capacity was installed worldwide. With this, the total installed wind capacity is about 13,400 MW. Wind turbines are large and can present strong visual impact. As a result, the siting of significant amounts of wind energy projects in densely populated areas presents major challenges. However, offshore wind farms are operating in Europe and are seen as an important alternative where wind conditions are often more favorable. Long Island is considered a prime location for offshore wind energy projects due to the region's high electric rates, capacity needs, and geographic conditions. A Long Island offshore wind farm may be economically feasible as well as acceptable to the region. However, there must be a feasibility study to address open issues and questions. SEA members have been working with the Brookhaven National Lab (BNL), New York Energy Research Development Administration and LIPA to frame this feasibility study. Public input and involvement in this initiative will be essential because it is the first such study in America and will have broad ramifications.
4) Building Code Changes:
The present building codes allow inefficient buildings to be constructed when the Towns have the ability to require greater energy efficiency measures for new construction. Theses measures could dramatically reduce energy demand in the towns and would be in the public interest. SEA is reaching out to Town Boards to participate in a review of current building codes and enforcement in order to identify possible improvements in the efficiency requirements for new construction.
Click Here to Request Information!
|
|
|
