The ambitions

Every self-respecting city has defined its CO2 targets and a sustainable energy policy. This is because energy from coal, mineral oil and natural gas (fossil sources) accounts for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions. The Covenant of Mayors (the European partnership of local and regional governments), following the line of the European Union, has set targets for 2030 and aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 20 percent as compared to 1990 levels, to save 20percent of energy and to generate 20 percent renewable energy. In fact, a number of Dutch municipalities aim for more. The Municipality of The Hague is following the national policy that aims for a 30 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and 20 percent for energy savings and energy from renewable sources. Amsterdam aims for a 40 percent reduction in CO2 emissions by 2025 with respect to 1990, while Rotterdam aims to emit no less than 50 percent CO2 reduction by 2025. Haarlem is even aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030.

So the ambitions and goals are looking good. But things are less clear when it comes to realising them. How can these targets be achieved, and what effects will we see in a city that has renounced fossil energy? How will residents and businesses experience all these changes? Is it financially feasible? And if so, why are things going so slowly?

The future picture

Currently the energy demand of private end-users in Northwestern Europe comprises heat for home heating and hot water, electricity and transport fuel. The demand for heat is the largest. Natural gas is currently being used for home heating and tapwater heating in the Netherlands. Most people also use natural gas for cooking. Electricity consumption is increasing because people are buying more electrical appliances. Even the most energy-efficient refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dishwashers, laundry dryers and TV sets require (a lot of) electricity. Lighting forms just a fraction of electricity consumption. Most cars are still powered by petrol or diesel. This brings not only the problem of CO2 emissions but also the emission of small particulates, which can cause diseases. This is especially a problem in inner cities and close to motorways. The energy consumption patterns of businesses are very different, so this article confines itself to private energy consumption.