Information sharing strategies to advance clean energy in buildings

ABSTRACT Information sharing can be an important tool for accelerating the diffusion of clean energy in buildings. Clean energy measures include improved energy efficiency and applications of wind and solar energy. These measures reduce retail electricity sales, thereby reducing emissions of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides from burning fossil fuels in power plants. Trends in information sharing strategies encompass interactive approaches that create confidence in clean energy markets, accelerate peer effects, and stimulate creation of imaginative energy solutions. Information sharing usually takes place within and across networks of architects and others who design buildings, suppliers of clean energy measures, consumers, and others. It may involve: working with and through respected organizations, providing personalized assistance to customers, increasing the visibility of clean energy through demonstration projects, establishing social norms about energy use, and working collaboratively to surpass current best practices.