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Japanese tragedy underscores need for renewable energy future
Freiburg, 30 March, 2011
The ongoing nuclear emergency in Japan, in combination with the massive human tragedy of both earthquake and tsunami, has created world wide reaction. On behalf of ISES and the Board of Directors, President Dave Renné extends our deepest sympathies and concerns toward all Japanese people and to our colleagues in the Japanese Solar Energy Society (JSES). Our hearts go out to all those stricken and suffering from these unprecedented natural disasters. At the same time our heads also react to the subsequent disaster resulting from damaged nuclear power stations as the nuclear emergency remains unresolved.
The situation is sending a clear reminder about the potential risks and danger of nuclear energy, and provides an opportunity to focus on how clean, safe, renewable energy resources could be used as an alternative electrical energy supply. While Japan's solar manufacturing industry has also suffered in the short term due to temporary closure of many factories, the long-term benefit of a transition to renewable energy resources is very clear.
ISES and its global network pledges to stands behind Japan in the massive rebuilding efforts that they are now facing, by providing the technical assistance necessary to demonstrate the key role that renewable energy should and must play in this rebuilding effort. The technologies that ISES supports can be installed quickly and safely to quicken the rebuilding process. These technologies do not require complex safety measures that add substantially to their cost and take years to implement. Despite the role that nuclear power may continue to play in Japan, ISES, working through JSES, can clearly show the country's decision makers that there is an alternative pathway to a clean, reliable energy future. Our global expertise in these technologies can be brought to bear with our JSES section to demonstrate that the ISES world community is solidly behind a rebuilding effort that follows a clean, safe, renewable energy pathway.
Other countries, especially those using nuclear power, are also taking note and refocusing on the opportunities of safer renewable energy options. ISES pledges to work with all these countries to showcase how renewable energy alternatives will lead to greater energy security, an improved environment, and enhanced economy. ISES again reiterates our sympathies and concerns to the Japanese people and stresses the opportunity that is now provided for Japan to move forward as a global leader in the utilisation of safe and clean energy renewable sources, and the transition toward a renewable energy world.
Contact details for further information:
International Solar Energy Society
Villa Tannheim
Wiesentalstr. 50
79115 Freiburg
Germany
Tel: +49 – 761 – 45906-0
Fax: +49 – 761 – 45906-99
Email: public.relations@ises.org
Web: http://www.ises.org
Dr. David Renné
ISES President
president@ises.org
Mahalath Halperin
ISES Vice President for Public Affairs
mh@mharchitects.com.au
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