As the world moves toward a greener future, new and exciting trends are emerging surrounding sustainable energy and its applications, particularly when it comes to power generation. Here’s what you need to know about sustainable energy, trends we’re seeing in the industry and some of our innovative projects that deliver on our promise of creating a more sustainable world.
What is Sustainable Energy?
Sustainable energy is any form of energy that can be used to meet today’s energy demands without negatively impacting future generations and their energy requirements. The most common sources of sustainable energy are biomass, geothermal, hydropower, solar, wind and green hydrogen.
Sustainable Energy vs. Renewable Energy
Sustainable energy and renewable energy are often used interchangeably, but it’s important to note the differences between the terms. While there are many similarities between both, identifying the key differences can help improve public understanding and shape environmental policy in a more productive direction.
When discussing sustainable energy, it’s critical to include the collection and distribution of energy in the equation. For example, while the burning of biomass like wood can be seen as a renewable fuel source, it must be done in a sustainable way, taking into account the carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. To be considered sustainable, renewable energy must maximize energy output, while minimizing negative impacts.
Three Key Sustainable Energy Trends
Sustainable energy is a frequent topic of discussion in politics, business and the world at large. With so much information available, it can be difficult to sift through the major stories of the day. However, there are three key trends we’re seeing that will have major impacts in the coming years.
Net-Zero Targets from Companies
More companies than ever are targeting net zero greenhouse gas emissions. Net-zero pledges have increased from 16% of the global economy in 2019 to nearly 70% in 2021. These businesses have taken steps to ensure carbon neutrality by the year 2050.
While these numbers are encouraging, more work needs to be done to limit and reverse the effects of climate change. We expect to see more companies working toward carbon neutrality as the effects of climate change continue to become more pronounced. Changing government regulations will also require more of a commitment to net zero. By planning ahead, companies can position themselves to properly navigate these requirements.
Global Energy Crisis Accelerates Clean Energy Transitions
The global energy crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and international conflicts have resulted in skyrocketing oil and gas prices throughout the world. As a result, both consumers and governments are seeking alternative forms of energy. Governments want energy security, while individuals are looking for ways to keep costs down at home.
Renewables offer an attractive alternative to traditional fossil fuels. As market volatility persists, sourcing and infrastructure for sustainable energy sources will continue to expand to meet market demand.
Increased Demand for Green Energy Partners
As governments, businesses and individuals all move toward more sustainable energy solutions, the need for proven partnerships with ties to green energy will continue to grow. While many companies will need to pivot operations to meet these demands, innovators like Stanley Consultants are able to readily meet the needs of diverse markets thanks to early and continued investment into environmentally conscious solutions.
Sustainable Energy Solutions from Stanley Consultants
At Stanley Consultants, our commitment to excellence can be seen in all 50 states and over 120 countries. We have more than a century of experience working with leaders in various industries to find solutions for their complex challenges. We recognize the need for sustainable energy solutions, and we’re working on projects every day in pursuit of these goals. Here’s a sample of what we’re presently doing.
Environmental Impact Planning
When planning a new project, it’s imperative to account for the environmental impact to prioritize both human safety and capital investments. With Resilient Analytics, we work to understand the long-term effects of climate stressors on infrastructure and people. From there, we’re in a better position to advise and develop strategies to minimize risk and maximize potential for our partners.
With better insights, we are positioned to help our partners adapt quickly to the impacts of climate change. The resulting solutions can produce more cost-effective and proactive approaches to the planning process.
Power Generation
With hundreds of energy utility projects under our belt, we are equipped to address the unique challenges of each power generation project we take on. As a full-service engineering consulting firm, with experts focused on renewable power sources, we’re positioned to deliver expertise from the initial planning stages of a project through the time the system goes operational.
Our experience with energy distribution goes beyond the power station. Since our first electrical projects more than 90 years ago, we’ve continued to innovate and optimize energy distribution to meet the needs of entities as diverse as military bases, educational institutions and industrial plants.
Clean Water Initiatives
Sustainable solutions include more than just power generation. Our clean water initiatives and water utilities help to protect one of the world’s most valuable resources.
Our digital water program is one of the highlights of our environmental and regulatory offerings. Using data from a wide range of sources, we’re able to offer deeper insights into water and wastewater treatments systems. By monitoring real-time conditions, running detailed simulations and optimizing operations, we’re able to offer utilities more informed decision-making abilities systemwide, resulting in decreased costs and waste and more value for our clients’ customers.
Discover Our People-First Approach to Sustainable Solutions
Our team of experts can help you find solutions for your sustainability challenges.
Contact us to connect with professionals who are ready to help you meet your goals. We also invite you to
take a look at the work we do every day as we pursue a more sustainable, connected and enriched world.