Nature Trust proposes energy-saving measures

Nature Trust yesterday called on the government to take steps to ensure that the increase in electricity prices is not resorted to again in the future by taking a mix of energy-saving and renewable energy measures.

It urged the government to invest more in improving the technology to generate power, which it described as inefficient, wasteful and costly.

The environment organisation suggested that changes should be made in the national grid system to allow energy generated from renewable sources by individual households to be integrated with energy generated by the fossil-burning power stations.

"Removal of Enemalta's monopoly in the energy sector to allow for companies investing in renewable energy sources to enter the market should be publicly discussed," it said.

The organisation also urged the government to introduce the use of renewable energy. It said initiatives should be taken to make solar water heating devices - which cost half the amount in Israel - a widespread reality.

It recommended a change in consumption patterns, with differential daytime and night-time electricity tariffs to better distribute the load on the power plants, as well as a national educational campaign on tips to save energy - such as not leaving lights switched on unnecessarily, not using tumble driers and not setting air conditioners at excessively cool temperatures.

The organisation also called for laws on eco-labelling of electrical devices so that citizens would be able to opt for energy-saving appliances such as low-consumption household equipment.

"A system of outdoors cut-off lighting apparatus for rural and suburban areas would save electricity," it said.