The Strategic Innovation Program for Energy Conservation is a government initiative that supports innovation and development of technologies that address global societal challenges. It funds demonstration projects and strategic collaboration programs. A large part of the program is focused on helping companies develop innovative products and processes that lead to improved energy conservation.
As climate change and other sweeping trends continue to affect society, local action and strategies to conserve energy are becoming more prominent. Companies, universities, and community organizations are working together to make sure that our built environment remains sustainable. This strategy has been endorsed by the Obama Administration. By incorporating these new technologies into our energy system, we can move toward a low carbon future.
There are several national initiatives designed to support energy conservation. These include the Energy Efficiency Technology Strategy, the Energy and Environment Innovation Strategy, and the Clean Resource Innovation Network. Each of these aims to drive clean energy breakthroughs and help lower the cost of critical technologies.
The Innovative Energy Strategy was formulated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). It outlines five tactics to promote the maximum introduction of renewable energy and to promote energy efficiency. Those tactics include: promoting the use of hydrogen-based systems, enhancing automation and digitalization, and integrating clean energy through batteries and photovoltaic installations.
Another strategy is the Energy and Environment Innovation Strategy, which was developed by the Cabinet Office. It is based on three core technologies that are part of our energy system: electricity, oil and natural gas, and renewable energies. Through this strategy, METI aims to improve the efficiency of the entire energy system, and to provide a new market for energy efficient goods and services.
In addition, the Energy and Environment Innovation Strategy emphasizes integration technologies for energy systems and innovative technologies covering seven fields. For example, a city-scale Residential Energy Map would apply energy data to improve the efficiency of buildings. Moreover, a number of innovations in the energy business model are being introduced. Such innovations include cutting-edge storage batteries, which could increase the range of electric vehicles by more than 700 kilometers. Other innovative technologies include non-CO2 emitting hydrogen, and photovoltaic power generation that doubles its efficiency.
The Building Technologies Office focuses on cooling, heating, and controls. It will invest in technology that will reduce the cost of heat pumps, insulation, and building envelopes. At the same time, it will promote the development of a new market based on the IoT.
RE:Source is another government initiative that aims to reduce greenhouse gases and improve environmental performance. It focuses on building efficiency and is financed by Vinnova. The program office is led by a board with members from the public and private sectors. One of the requirements for participating in this program is to be committed to improving competition. To join the program, one must fill out an application questionnaire and provide a statement of interest. Once the application is approved, a representative from SIF will contact you to update your status.