Anaerobic Digestion

A biological process that breaks down organic materials in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas and digestate. This technology is used for waste management and renewable energy production. Anaerobic digestion can process various organic wastes like food scraps, agricultural residues, and sewage sludge to generate biogas (primarily methane) that can be used for electricity, heat, or fuel. The remaining nutrient-rich digestate can be used as fertilizer, contributing to a circular economy by recycling waste into valuable resources.

Source: European Biogas Association

Battery Storage

Technology that stores electrical energy in batteries for later use, crucial for balancing supply and demand in renewable energy systems. Battery storage systems can store excess energy generated from renewable sources like solar and wind, releasing it when production is low or demand is high. This technology is essential for grid stability, enabling the integration of more renewable energy into the power grid and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Source: Energy Storage Association

Bioenergy

Energy produced from organic materials, such as plant and animal waste. Bioenergy can be used for electricity, heating, and transportation fuels. It includes various forms such as biogas, bioethanol, and biodiesel. Bioenergy can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing fossil fuels and utilizing waste materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill methane emissions.

Source: International Energy Agency

Biochar

A charcoal-like substance produced by burning organic material in a low oxygen environment. It can be used to improve soil health, sequester carbon, and manage waste. Biochar is produced through pyrolysis and can enhance soil fertility by retaining nutrients and water, promoting healthy plant growth. It also acts as a carbon sink, storing carbon in the soil for hundreds to thousands of years, thus mitigating climate change.

Source: International Biochar Initiative

Biofuel

Fuels derived from biological sources, including crops, vegetable oils, and animal fats. Biofuels can replace traditional fossil fuels in transportation and other applications. Common types include bioethanol, made from fermenting sugars, and biodiesel, produced from oils and fats. Biofuels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to energy security and environmental sustainability.

Source: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Biomass

Organic material that comes from plants and animals, used as a renewable energy source. Biomass can be converted into electricity, heat, or biofuels. It includes wood, agricultural residues, and organic waste. Biomass energy is considered carbon-neutral because the CO2 released during combustion is offset by the CO2 absorbed during the growth of the biomass, making it a sustainable energy option.

Source: European Union

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)

Technologies designed to capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes or the atmosphere and store them long-term, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. CCS involves capturing CO2 at the source, transporting it to a storage site, and injecting it into underground geological formations. This technology can significantly reduce emissions from power plants and industrial sources, contributing to climate change mitigation.

Source: Global CCS Institute

Carbon Footprint

The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product, measured in units of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e). It includes emissions from activities such as energy use, transportation, and waste production. Reducing carbon footprints involves improving energy efficiency, using renewable energy, and adopting sustainable practices.

Source: Carbon Trust

Carbon Neutrality

Achieving a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere in carbon sinks. This can be accomplished through reducing emissions and investing in carbon offset projects. Carbon neutrality means that any CO2 released into the atmosphere from a company's activities is balanced by an equivalent amount being removed, often through reforestation or renewable energy projects.

Source: United Nations Climate Change

Circular Water Management

Approaches to managing water resources that emphasize reuse, recycling, and recovery of water and its constituents, promoting sustainability in water use. Circular water management involves treating wastewater to make it reusable, capturing rainwater, and using water-efficient technologies. This approach reduces water consumption, minimizes waste, and ensures a sustainable supply of clean water.

Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Clean Energy

Energy generated from renewable, zero-emission sources, as well as energy saved through efficiency measures. Clean energy sources include wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal power. This approach reduces reliance on fossil fuels, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, and supports a more sustainable energy system.

Source: Clean Energy Council

Cogeneration

The simultaneous production of electricity and useful heat from the same energy source. Cogeneration systems are highly efficient and can reduce energy costs and emissions. Also known as combined heat and power (CHP), this technology captures heat that would otherwise be wasted in conventional power generation, significantly improving overall energy efficiency.

Source: Cogeneration Channel

Demand Response

A system that adjusts the demand for power instead of adjusting the supply, helping to balance the grid by reducing or shifting electricity use during peak periods. This approach involves consumers changing their electricity usage in response to price signals or incentives, improving grid reliability and reducing the need for additional power plants.

Source: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Desalination

The process of removing salts and minerals from seawater or brackish water to produce fresh water, often used in arid regions to provide drinking water. As water scarcity becomes more prevalent, desalination technologies are increasingly important for ensuring water security, though they can be energy-intensive.

Source: International Desalination Association

Distributed Energy Resources (DER)

Small-scale units of local generation connected to the grid at distribution level, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage systems. DERs can improve grid resilience, reduce transmission losses, and enable consumers to participate in energy production and management.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

District Heating

A system for distributing heat generated in a centralized location for residential and commercial heating requirements. The heat is often obtained from cogeneration plants, waste heat sources, or renewable energy. District heating can significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions in urban areas.

Source: Euroheat & Power

Energy Audit

An assessment that evaluates the energy consumption of a building or system to identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements and cost savings. Energy audits are crucial for developing targeted strategies to reduce energy use and associated costs in buildings and industrial processes.

Source: Energy Star

Energy Efficiency

The goal of using less energy to provide the same service. Energy efficiency improvements can be achieved through technology, behavior changes, and better management practices. This approach is often considered the "first fuel" in the transition to a sustainable energy system, as it reduces both energy consumption and associated emissions.

Source: International Energy Agency

Energy Management System (EMS)

A system of computer-aided tools used by operators of electric utility grids to monitor, control, and optimize the performance of the generation and/or transmission system. EMS helps balance supply and demand, manage grid stability, and improve overall energy efficiency in power systems.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Energy Performance Contracting (EPC)

A financing mechanism that allows energy efficiency improvements to be paid for through the savings generated by those improvements, often used in building retrofits. EPC enables organizations to implement energy-saving measures without upfront capital costs, as the contractor guarantees energy savings that will cover the project costs over time.

Source: Energy Services Coalition

Energy Storage

Technologies that store energy for later use, crucial for balancing supply and demand in renewable energy systems. This includes batteries, pumped hydro storage, and thermal storage. Energy storage systems enable the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources into the grid, improving overall system reliability and efficiency.

Source: Energy Storage Association

Feed-in Tariff (FiT)

A policy mechanism designed to accelerate investment in renewable energy technologies by providing long-term contracts and guaranteed pricing for the electricity generated. FiTs typically offer a set price for renewable energy fed into the grid, providing financial certainty to investors and accelerating the adoption of clean energy technologies.

Source: International Renewable Energy Agency

Geothermal Energy

Heat energy generated and stored in the Earth. Geothermal energy can be used for electricity generation, direct heating, and heat pumps. This renewable energy source taps into the Earth's internal heat, providing a consistent and sustainable power supply with minimal environmental impact.

Source: Geothermal Resources Council

Green Building

A building that, in its design, construction, or operation, reduces or eliminates negative impacts and can create positive impacts on the climate and natural environment. Green buildings often incorporate energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and design features that minimize environmental impact while enhancing occupant health and comfort.

Source: U.S. Green Building Council

Green Infrastructure

A network providing the "ingredients" for solving urban and climatic challenges by building with nature. This includes green roofs, green walls, rain gardens, and permeable pavements. Green infrastructure mimics natural processes to manage stormwater, reduce urban heat island effects, and enhance biodiversity in urban areas.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Greenhouse Gas (GHG)

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect. Key GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases. These gases are the primary drivers of human-induced climate change, with their increasing concentrations leading to global warming and associated environmental impacts.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Greywater Recycling

The process of reusing water from baths, sinks, washing machines, and other kitchen appliances for purposes such as irrigation and toilet flushing. Greywater recycling reduces overall water consumption and eases the burden on water treatment facilities, contributing to more sustainable water management practices.

Source: Greywater Action

Heat Pump

A device that transfers heat energy from a source of heat to a destination called a "heat sink". Heat pumps are used for space heating, cooling, and water heating. They can extract heat from air, ground, or water sources, providing an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems.

Source: International Energy Agency

Hydroelectric Power

Electricity generated by harnessing the energy of moving water, typically using dams or run-of-river systems. Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source that can provide large-scale, consistent electricity generation with minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation.

Source: International Hydropower Association

Industrial Symbiosis

A form of brokering to bring companies together in innovative collaborations, finding ways to use the waste from one as raw materials for another. This approach creates closed-loop systems within industrial ecosystems, reducing waste and resource consumption while creating new value streams for businesses.

Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Internet of Things (IoT)

The interconnection of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data and supporting more efficient resource use. IoT can help optimize energy consumption, improve resource management, and enhance the efficiency of systems such as smart grids, smart buildings, and industrial processes.

Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Landfill Gas

A natural byproduct of the decomposition of organic material in landfills, which can be captured and used as a renewable energy source. Landfill gas primarily consists of methane and carbon dioxide and can be processed to generate electricity, heat, or fuel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing a sustainable energy source.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

LED Lighting

Light-emitting diode (LED) lighting is a highly energy-efficient lighting technology that can significantly reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. LEDs have a longer lifespan and consume less power compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, making them an effective solution for reducing energy consumption in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

A technique to assess environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a product's life from cradle to grave, used to evaluate resource use and emissions. LCA helps identify opportunities for reducing environmental impacts and improving sustainability throughout the product lifecycle, from raw material extraction to disposal or recycling.

Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Microgrid

A small-scale power grid that can operate independently or in conjunction with the area's main electrical grid, enhancing energy resilience and efficiency. Microgrids can integrate various distributed energy resources, such as solar panels and battery storage, to provide reliable power supply and improve grid stability.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Net Metering

A billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid, helping to offset their energy costs. Net metering allows consumers to generate their own electricity and receive compensation for excess energy produced, promoting the adoption of renewable energy technologies.

Source: Solar Energy Industries Association

Net Zero Energy Building

A building with zero net energy consumption, meaning the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site. Net zero energy buildings are designed to be highly energy-efficient and incorporate renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, to achieve energy balance.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Off-grid Systems

Energy systems that are not connected to the main electrical grid, often used in remote areas to provide electricity through renewable sources like solar or wind. Off-grid systems can include solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage, providing reliable and sustainable power independent of the central grid.

Source: International Renewable Energy Agency

Passive Solar Design

Design techniques that use the sun's energy for heating and cooling living spaces, reducing the need for mechanical systems. Passive solar design incorporates building orientation, window placement, thermal mass, and insulation to maximize natural heating and cooling, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Peak Load

The maximum electrical power demand during a specified period, such as a day or year. Managing peak load is crucial for maintaining grid stability and preventing blackouts. Peak load management strategies include demand response, energy storage, and load shifting to balance supply and demand.

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

Photovoltaic (PV) Cells

Devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity, commonly used in solar panels. PV cells are made of semiconductor materials, such as silicon, which absorb photons of light and release electrons, generating an electric current. This technology is a cornerstone of solar energy systems, providing a renewable and sustainable source of electricity.

Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

A contract between two parties, one which generates electricity (the seller) and one which is looking to purchase electricity (the buyer), often used to finance renewable energy projects. PPAs provide a stable revenue stream for the seller and a reliable energy supply for the buyer, facilitating investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Pumped Hydro Storage

A type of hydroelectric power generation used for load balancing, where water is pumped from a lower elevation reservoir to a higher elevation during low demand periods and released to generate electricity during high demand periods. This technology helps stabilize the grid by storing excess energy and releasing it when needed, making it a crucial component of renewable energy systems.

Source: International Hydropower Association

Rain Water Collection

The process of collecting and storing rainwater for reuse, typically for irrigation, landscaping, and sometimes for potable water after proper treatment. Rainwater collection systems can help reduce water bills, mitigate stormwater runoff, and provide a sustainable water source.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)

Tradable, non-tangible energy commodities that represent proof that 1 megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity was generated from an eligible renewable energy resource. RECs are used to track and trade renewable energy, providing a mechanism for supporting renewable energy development and allowing consumers to purchase green power.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Smart Grid

An electricity supply network that uses digital communications technology to detect and react to local changes in usage, supporting more efficient energy use. Smart grids enhance the reliability, efficiency, and sustainability of the electricity system by integrating renewable energy sources, enabling demand response, and improving grid management.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Smart Meter

An electronic device that records consumption of electric energy and communicates the information to the electricity supplier for monitoring and billing. Smart meters provide real-time data on energy use, helping consumers manage their energy consumption more effectively and enabling utilities to optimize grid operations.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Solar Thermal Energy

Technology for harnessing solar energy for thermal energy (heat). This can be used for water heating, space heating, space cooling, and process heat generation. Solar thermal systems capture and concentrate sunlight to produce heat, which can be used directly or converted into electricity.

Source: Solar Energy Industries Association

Sustainable Agriculture

Farming practices that meet current food needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs, focusing on environmental health, economic profitability, and social equity. Sustainable agriculture promotes soil health, water conservation, biodiversity, and reduced use of chemical inputs.

Source: Food and Agriculture Organisation

Sustainable Forestry

Management of forests according to principles of sustainability, ensuring that the forest's biodiversity, productivity, and ecological processes are maintained. Sustainable forestry practices include selective logging, reforestation, and maintaining natural habitats to support ecosystem health and resilience.

Source: Forest Stewardship Council

Thermal Energy Storage

Technology that stores thermal energy for later use, helping to balance supply and demand in heating and cooling applications. Thermal energy storage systems can store excess thermal energy from solar collectors, industrial processes, or off-peak electricity, releasing it when needed to provide heating or cooling, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing costs.

Source: International Renewable Energy Agency

Tidal Energy

Energy generated from the movement of tides, a form of hydropower that converts the energy obtained from tides into useful forms of power, mainly electricity. Tidal energy systems use the rise and fall of tides to drive turbines, providing a predictable and renewable energy source with minimal environmental impact.

Source: International Renewable Energy Agency

Urban Mining

The process of reclaiming compounds and elements from products, buildings, and waste, including the recovery of metals and other valuable materials from electronic waste and construction debris. Urban mining helps reduce the need for virgin resource extraction, supports recycling, and promotes a circular economy by recovering valuable materials from urban environments.

Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Vertical Farming

The practice of growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often incorporating controlled-environment agriculture, which optimizes plant growth and uses soilless farming techniques. Vertical farming can reduce the land footprint of agriculture, improve resource efficiency, and enable year-round production of fresh produce in urban areas.

Source: Association for Vertical Farming

Waste-to-Energy (WtE)

Processes that generate energy in the form of electricity, heat, or transport fuels from waste materials, supporting energy recovery in circular systems. Waste-to-energy technologies can help reduce landfill waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and provide a renewable energy source by converting waste into valuable energy products.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Water Footprint

The total volume of freshwater used to produce the goods and services consumed by an individual, community, or business. The water footprint includes direct water use (e.g., drinking, washing) and indirect water use (e.g., water used in the production of food and goods), helping to assess and manage water consumption and sustainability.

Source: Water Footprint Network

Water Recycling

The process of treating wastewater to make it reusable for various purposes, including agriculture, industrial processes, and potable water supplies. Water recycling helps conserve water resources, reduce wastewater discharge, and promote sustainable water management practices.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Wind Energy

Energy generated by harnessing the power of wind using turbines to produce electricity. Wind energy is a renewable and sustainable energy source that can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to energy security.

Source: American Wind Energy Association

Zero-Energy Building

A building with zero net energy consumption, meaning the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is equal to the amount of renewable energy created on-site or off-site. Zero-energy buildings are designed to be highly energy-efficient and incorporate renewable energy systems to achieve energy balance.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy