Consulting-Specifying Engineer - December 2007 - (Page 32) Global energy issue takes center stage BY JOHN GALYEN, PRESIDENT, Danfoss Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning, Baltimore Top 10 things we’ve learned about the global energy challenge. h ile it’s impossible to summarize the global energy challenge, the HVACR industry, and ourselves (as engineers, parents, and consumers) into a few succinct paragraphs, here’s a summary of the findings from the EnVisioneering Symposium Series, launched in August 2006 by Danfoss Refrigeration & AirConditioning, Baltimore. T he global energy challenge is so complex that it is difficult for any one person, business, or industry segment to wrap its arms around all of the variables. It’s like trying to accurately predict the weather. Even the so-called experts can’t provide clear direction because the variables constantly are changing. To borrow an old phrase: To eat an elephant, you must eat it one portion at a time. W 1| Compared to the billions of energy consumers, there are a relatively small number of passionate leaders on the global energy front. These leaders must continue to push for change and drive solutions. This won’t be easy. It never is when multiple stakeholders and multiple interests are involved. But through their passion, commitment, and dogged determination, these leaders make a difference in how we perceive and tackle the global energy challenge. 2| T h e fe d e ra l gover nment needs to take a leadership role in driving home change and preventing a patchwork landscape. For example, there needs to be a uniform call to the HVAC-R industry regarding the rules and regulations that govern energy efficiency. Historically, our industry responds best when rules and regulations are mandated; the 13 seasonal energy efficiency ratio mandate is a good example. But, like building codes for new construction, appliance standards can only go so far. We need some type of policy initiatives to ensure the lifecycle efficiency of buildings and equipment. Meanwhile, the federal government can learn a few things about energy efficiency from state governments. Many states 3| 32 Consulting-Specifying Engineer • DECEMBER 2007
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