**Preface XI**


Preface

lighting.

mentioned above.

switching are discussed.

Today, access to energy is considered for granted for many, while the situation is the opposite for billions of people who still lack energy for basic needs such as cooking and

Rising energy demand because of economic growth and also population growth will likely lead to higher energy prices, which in turn can exacerbate the situation for a large part of the world population. Moreover, the environmental impact of energy exploitation and use, which to a large extent is based on fossil energy resources, has already reached a level that calls for greater attention. Therefore, the energy and climate issues have gained increasing attention in the political agenda at different levels both nationally and internationally. This has resulted in various forms of policies that are intended to promote sustainability through

The fact that the world's energy systems for the most part are built on fossil energy resources and that renewable energy alternative must constantly prove competitive means that it will take time to bring about a drastic change in the global energy map. This is a process where the energy system must be improved step by step towards a sustainable direction. The challenges in the area of resources, energy supply security, economic growth and the environment require a joint action in which the development of alternative energy, technology improvement and introduction of relevant policy instruments should go hand in

This book is a collection of six interesting chapters which focus on some specific areas that are vital for the promotion of sustainability in the area of energy and environment. The papers which are included in this book can be generally classified under the following themes: district heating, bioenergy, solar energy, industrial energy auditing and building. The book will provide a general but also some specific insight into the different topics

The first chapter describes the value of district heating and cooling as a means toward efficient utilisation of energy resources. Here, important aspects such as industrial surplus heat utilisation, poly-generation opportunity, biomass fuels utilisation and energy-carrier

Bioenergy is the main theme in chapter 2 and 3. Chapter 2 gives an extensive literature review on potential and use of bioenergy in ASEAN countries. Moreover, the importance of clean development mechanism (CDM) to boost bioenergy projects in these regions is highlighted. Chapter 3 deals with combustion technology development where local biomass (agricultural residues) can be used for local heat production. This chapter is supported by

increased share of alternative energy sources and efficient energy use.

hand in order to achieve sustainable development at all levels.
