Energy sector needs input from science on climate change
ToPDAd interviewed fifteen organisations from the energy sector, in eight European countries, to find out what kind of scientific and economic information they are looking for in response to climate change.
Respondents said that climate change is felt both directly and indirectly in the energy sector. In particular, changes in precipitation and temperature are of importance. The sector is concerned by extreme events, but also by long-term trends.
For instance, cold spells could increase the risk of the energy sector failing to meet the energy demand, due to imbalances in demand and generation. Also increased wind and water availability influence the energy supply.
The interviewed organisations see risks of losses due to climate change, but even more potential benefits.
In order to adapt, energy organisations need help from scientists. 80% of the respondents believe that reliable scientific information is required to improve their decisions.
Energy organisations are in the first place looking for information on probabilistic climate risks, but also want to know how reliable those estimates are.
ToPDAd is developing a toolset that will support organisations when taking adaptation decisions. Slightly more than half of the interviewed agents indicated that they need external support and collaboration in assessing or implementing adaptation measures.
The results of the interviews with the energy sector were presented in August 2014 at the Nordic International Conference on Climate Change Adaptation in Copenhagen. Click on the presentation below to find out more.
