4 Ways Technology is Helping Major Cities be more Energy Efficient

Posted on September 28, 2011 by Jesse

As technology keeps getting smarter, people all around the world are exploring different ways to use these new abilities to save money and reduce carbon emissions. The following are 4 examples of green tech which stood out for us, which you may see rolling into an urban city near you!

1. Smarter City Streetlights

Currently used in the China, Malaysia and some US cities, these Ultra Smart Streetlights use FlexNet Lighting Control System to monitor and control 35 energy-efficient LED and induction fixtures.

With a ‘Smart Grid “ wireless radio control the lights can be dimmed or brightened according to the situation (in case of emergency) or by a police dispatcher. Not only does this reduce carbon emissions but is safer for residents, as the lights are also programmed to increase light output as it gets later in the night.

2. Small Urban Wind Turbines

Currently there are 9 turbines being tested throughout Reno for efficiency, measuring wind currents and speed, peak times, and total output.

“Right now, we only have very preliminary data,” says Jason Geddes, the environmental services administrator for the City of Reno. “What we have found, though, is that roof-mounted turbines, like the ones on City Hall, have experienced more turbulence than anticipated and shouldn’t be installed on the parapet, but high enough above the roof to get out of the turbulence zone.”

3. Solar Trees & Groves

Photovoltaic (PV) solar structures aka ‘solar trees’ and ‘solar groves’ serve as many great energy efficient solutions including generating electricity for specific areas such as parks and parking lots, offering shade in parking lots and even offering charging stations for electric cars

These solar trees and groves are already being installed in cities around the world. Appearing in some cases as outdoor art installations, like the one at Museum of Applied Arts/Contemporary Art (MAK) in Vienna.

Santa Clara County anticipates an electrical cost savings of $18 million over the next 25 years and a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Amazing numbers!

4. Tinting Glass Technology

Currently being used internationally SageGlass product that can be switched from clear to tinted by either the click of a button or can be programmed to respond to changes in sunlight and heat! Zoning is also an option, meaning that panes hit by direct sunlight can tint, while ones receiving indirect sunlight can stay clear.

“On hot, sunny days, the glass can be tinted to reduce glare and block out heat,” says Derek Malmquist, VP of marketing at SAGE. “On cold, cloudy days, the glass can remain clear to allow sunlight and heat to fill an office or home.”

While most of SAGE’s customers are architects, building owners and operators, they also sell into high-end residential markets.