Feedback regarding article "Disaster for Danish Renewable Energy"

Many international organisations and individuals have expressed their concern about Renewable Energy development after the new Danish liberal/conservative government presented the draft for the Danish State Financial Budget for 2002 and the years to come.

The international reaction is very strong and expresses deep concern of Denmark's future position globally. Denmark and its renewable energy industry has been an example for many countries. The organisations deplore that all R&D programmes, financial support, committees, government agencies etc. that for 20 years were crucial in the development of renewable energy solutions were cancelled or dissolved immediately.

Folkecenter has received copies of many letters sent from these international organisations and individuals to Members of the Danish Parliament and to Danish medias. Below is listed a selection of 37 of these letters which have been sent to Folkecenter in copy.

We encourage the international community to continue to send their comments and protests in support of a clean energy future


Here are listed some of the inquiries, comments or protests which have been sent to the Danish parliament members and Danish newspapers etc.

See also

Y. Shibuya, KAWASAKI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD., Japan

Date: February 14, 2002
To: Minister of Economy and Trade, Attention:Mr. Bendt Bendtsen.
cc: Chairman of the Energy Committee, Mrs. Aase D. Madsen. Prime Minister, Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen. Minister of Finance, Mr. Thor Pedersen.

 

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

We were disappointed to have been informed that the Danish Government announced on February 5, 2002 that it would cancel all the national renewable energy programs for 2002 and thereafter.

We, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI), concluded the License Agreement with Folkecenter of your country on April 1, 2001 for five years regarding biogas plant including digester as a key component.

After the conclusion of the License Agreement we are making utmost effort for development of biogas plants introducing the advanced renewable technology of Folkecenter to the Japanese market.

As you know, most of countries in the world already started to cope with global warming, CO2 emission, and other environmental contamination, so Japan, one of the developed countries though, just started to catch up these world measures.

We suppose that the Danish Government will reduce its renewable energy programs because of high costs. However, we think that renewable energy should be affordable in all industrialized countries because of its environmental benefits.

Although the renewable energy technology in Japan is behind compared with your country, we would like to catch up this technology by means of the technical assistance of Folkecenter who has ample experiences.

It is substantial for the global development that countries with knowledge and experiences in the field of the renewable energy technologies maintain and strengthen their efforts within sectors where improved environment and industrial development can be combined.

Therefore, although we can well understand your country's situation confronted with various measures such as aged citizens, financial tightness, we would like to ask you to support your Folkecenter and to maintain or increase the present level of technology development and innovation in the field of renewable energy and thereby expand the excellent Danish technology towards the world.

We see this Danish-Japanese initiative as an example of transferring key technology which will simultaneously create a new industrial growth with only positive effect to the environment and also save scarce fossil energy.

Yours very truly

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Y. Shibuya, Senior Manager
Industrial Waste Treatment Plant Sales Department
Environmental Control Plant Sales Division

KAWASAKI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
TOKYO HEAD OFFICE, 4-1
HAMAMATSU-CHO 2-CHOME, MINATO-KU,TOKYO,105-6116
JAPAN

PHONE:++81-3-3435-2378
FACSIMILE:++81-3-3435-2986

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Johannes Lackmann, President of the German Renewable Energy Association, BEE, Germany.

from :Johannes Lackmann - BEE, Info@BEE-eV.de
Sent: 
To: min@oem.dk , dfaadm@ft.dk , vanfr@folketinget.dk , min@fm.dk , vkian@folketinget.dk , vkrje@folketinget.dk , kfhesj@ft.dk , kfgise@ft.dk , ssvau@ft.dk , spigj@ft.dk , rvmali@ft.dk , rvmohp@ft.dk , dfaadm@ft.dk , dfkrtd@ft.dk , support4RE*folkecenter.dk
Subject: Cancellation of all renewable energy programmes endangers the international climate protection

Cancellation of all renewable energy programmes endangers the international climate protection

 

Dear ladies and gentlemen,

the planned cuts of the renewable energies in Denmark do harm to the international development of the wind industry and to the dissemination of emission free electricity production and thus damage the endeavours to protect the global climate.

So far Denmark has been known as the world-wide leading export country of climate protecting technologies, for example wind power and bio mass technologies. Global supply of pioneer information and export orientated market preparations promoted by the state such as the Nordvestjysk Folkecenter have also supported the development of the biggest market world-wide for the Danish wind industry in Germany since the 80s as well as the markets in Europe. If the Danish Government retreats from this market preparation then this will not only damage the Danish export industry but will also reduce the dynamic development of the international climate protection policy and will do harm to Denmark`s credibility in this field.

Please do not underestimate the up to now outstanding importance of the Danish role as a pioneer. We fear vaste international effects when the Danish government realizes its present cutting plans. Therefore we appeal to you to rethink these plans.

We would appreciate very much to have the chance to talk with you about corresponding subjects and the perspectives of the renewable energy industry.

Yours faithfully

Dipl.-Ing. Johannes Lackmann
- President -
German Renewable Energy Association
Marienstr. 19-20
D-10117 Berlin
Germany

www.BEE-eV.de

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Richard Ottinger, Dean Emeritus of Pace Law School, member of  IUCN, USA

From: Richard Ottinger  ROttinger@law.pace.edu
Sent: 19. februar 2002 17:32
To: min@oem.dk ; dfaadm@folketinget.dk ; vanfr@folketinget.dk ; min@fm.dk ; ole.christensen@folketinget.dk ; vkian@folketinget.dk ; vkrje@folketinget.dk ; kfhesj@folketinget.dk ; kfgise@folketinget.dk ; Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk ; spigj@folketinget.dk ; rvmali@folketinget.dk ; rvmohp@folketinget.dk ; dfaadm@folketinget.dk ; dfkrtd@folketinget.dk ; indland@pol.dk ; chefred@information.dk ; jp@jp.dk ; redaktionen@berlingske.dk 
Subject: Danish Government Support for Clean Energy

As Dean Emeritus of Pace Law School which has one of the top environmental law programs in the world and as a member of the IUCN Commission on Environmental Law and Chair of its Climate and Energy Working Group, I write to express my dire distress at the news that the Danish government is cancelling all support world-wide for clean and renewable energy alternatives.

The world has looked to Denmark for leadership in sustainable energy policies. We have pointed with pride to Denmark as the leading initiator of wind energy programs. The developing countries have benefited enormously from the past generosity of Denmark in assisting them in their transition to clean energy resources. Denmark has been a leader as well in promoting the United Nations Convention on Climate Change and its Kyoto Protocol.

I do hope that Denmark will reconsider this policy decision. The world will be a much poorer place, developing countries will face sustained poverty and misallocation of resources, the UN climate change efforts will be impaired, and Denmark will lose its luster as a world clean energy leader if these decisions are not reconsidered.

Many thanks for your consideration of these views. 

Best regards.


Richard L. Ottinger
Dean Emeritus of Pace Law School
Member of the IUCN Commission on Environmental Law, Chair of its Climate and Energy Working Group
USA

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Prof. Pincas Jawetz, Board Member, World Sustainable Energy Coalition CMDC-WSEC, Nêw York

From: Pincas Jawetz , pj16@nyu.edu 
Date: Fri, 15 Feb 2002
To: min@fm.dk , min@oem.dk , dfaadm@ft.dk , vanfr@vanfr@folketinget.dk , Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk , Info@icec.ch , redaktionen@berlingske.dk , chefred@information.dk , energy@folkecenter.dk , dfkrt@ft.dk , rvmohp@ft.dk , indland@pol.dk 
Subject: Denmark, the EU Presidency and Renewable Energy for Sustainable Development.

Dear Gentlemen,

As an NGO representative to the UN and familiar with the outstanding performance of the Danish delegation at the UN Commission for Sustainable Development, and having looked forward with great pleasure for a Danish Presidency of the European Union at the time of the WORLD SUMMIT FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT to be held this August-September in Johannesburg, I am seriously disturbed by the idea of a possible change in the Danish position on Sustainable Energy that may shake up the EU position.

There is no doubt that the overindulgence in the uncontrolled use of oil - the unsustainable consumption and production patterns in our life, as promoted by the extractive industries, is taking us in the clear direction to self destruction. Today's New York Times, February 15, 2002, bears an article on the OP-ED page by Princeton University Professor of Economics Paul Krugman - "Ersatz Climate Policy" - a reaction to US Administration policies. We had until now Denmark to hold on to - but if you desert us we may loose an important chance we have this year of ratifying the Kyoto Protocol to the Climate Change Convention and the introduction of more benign energy policies via the work at the WSSD . Also, Denmark has proven renewable energy technologies and made efforts to commercialize these technologies - a Danish retreat will be viewed as an acceptance of defeat and harm the subject at large.

Sincerely Yours
Prof. Pincas Jawetz,
Nêw York
Board Member
World Sustainable Energy Coalition CMDC-WSEC, Geneva

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Mr. Joan Fages, President, European Renewable Energies Federation (EREF), Spain

From: Mr. Joan Fages - EREF,  appacom@retemail.es
Date: 12/2 2002
To: Danish MP´s and other key politicians in Denmark

Dear Sir,

The European Renewable Energies Federation (EREF) is made up of sixteen national associations of renewable energy producers, belonging to ten different countries of the European Union. We unite the common interests of 10,500 European companies with an established power of more than 6,000 megawatts from renewable energy sources (RES), such as small hydro, wind, biomass, solar, tidal, wave and geothermal.

Denmark have always had a marvellous name in the world for environmental conscience, a strong climate protection policy and for a consequent increase of the use of renewable energy technologies for heat and electricity supply. Denmark had acknowledged its international responsibility in the past; aware of being number 5 worldwide in terms of CO2 emissions per capita. Denmark have been the symbol for a sound interconnection between environmental awareness and sustainable developement and research. In this context, the Danish Renewable industry and especially the wind industry are amongst the market leaders worldwide. The Danish wind power industry is the third largest single export force of Denmark, next to pork and pharmaceutical products.

As the main European organization in the clean energy business field, we have learned with the utmost disbelief and concern that the new Danish Government intends to stop all further development of the current level of renewable energies in Denmark. All R&D programmes, financial support, committees, government agencies etc. that for 20 years have been crucial in the development of renewable energy will immediately be cancelled or dissolved. As it appears, all funding of renewable energy for 2002 onwards has been eliminated in the budget proposal. All national programmes for solar thermal, biogas, biomass, hydrogen, photovoltaic, wave energy etc. will be phased out as from January 1, 2002. The government has just cancelled the plans of large scale off-shore wind power. The power companies are no longer obliged to continue the off-shore programme and no Public funding or guaranteed tariffs will be available.

We therefore urgently ask the government and the parliament of Denmark to re-join the Kyoto committed countries, to re-install all programmes in Denmark aiming at the development and increase of Renewable Energies Technologies. Otherwise a country like Denmark which have been the front runner for a new democratic approach to industry and development, for a sustainable, human and successful new renewable electricity sector, thus a role model for the world, it may now become known for its outdated energy policy, causing damage to its own environment, economy and image.

Yours sincerely,

Mr. Joan Fages
President
European Renewable Energies Federation (EREF)
París, 205
08008 Barcelona
Spain

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Dr. Hermann Scheer MP, World Council for Renewable Energy, EUROSOLAR, Germany
Dr. rer.pol., Dr. h.c., Mitglied des Deutschen Bundestages

From: Dr. Hermann Scheer MP , hermann.scheer@wk.bundestag.de
Date: 11/2 2002
to: Sent individually to 

Waiblingen, den 11. Febr. 2002

To
the Prime Minister
Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen

Dear Mr. Rasmussen,

the Danish activities for Renewable Energies in the run of the last fifteen years played a front running role around Europe towards a zero-emission future. The Danish role was not only important in the wind sector but also in the sector of energy from biomass and for solar heating. Beside this the Danish activities, mainly of the Folkecenter for Renewably Energy in Hurup Thy, played a famous and indispensable international role for the development of applied Renewable Energy Technologies and for the developing of strategies for Renewable Energy introduction in Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America. The Danish work created new and ever increasing industrial and agricultural opportunities for Denmark. Renewable Energy strategies are now, inspired by successful Danish examples, a new priority of the European Union and on the top list of global environment and climate protection strategies.

I have been informed, that the new Danish government has decided to cancel or to dissolve its support for Renewable Energy promotion activities. Victims of this decision would be the Folkecenter and its sister organisation, the Forum for Energy and Development, but also the national programmes for solar thermal, biogas, biomass, hydrogen, photovoltaic and wave energy. This decision will create a disaster for many innovative institutes, inventors, investors, companies and organisations. I can't imagine that this cancellation will be in the interest of your country.

Nobody in the international field will understand the reason of this decision, which is in a radical contrast to the general needs and to the important value of the Danish Renewable Energy supporters.

Capacity as General Chairman of the World Council for Renewable Energy I appeal to the Danish Parliament: try to stop the cancelling of the Renewable Energy activities in Denmark.

 

With kindly regards

Dr. Hermann Scheer MP
General Chairman World Council for Renewable Energy
President of EUROSOLAR

Bahnhofstr. 74
D-71332 Waiblingen
Germany

http://www.hermann-scheer.de

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Josep Puig, Recipients of 2001 Poul laCour Award , Spain

From: Josep Puig peppuig@eic.ictnet.es 
to:

Danish Government

* Prime Minister, Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen. E-mail: vanfr@folketinget.dk 
* Minister of Finance, Mr. Thor Pedersen. E-mail: min@fm.dk 
* Minister of Economy and Trade, Mr. Bendt Bendtsen. E-mail: min@oem.dk 
* Chairman of the Energy Committee, Mrs. Aase D. Madsen. E-mail: dfaadm@ft.dk 

Danish Parliament

The Danish Liberal Party, Venstre:
Energy political spokesman: Mr. Kim Andersen. E-mail: vkian@folketinget.dk
Financial political spokesman: Mr. Kristian Jensen. E-mail: vkrje@folketinget.dk 

The Danish Conservative Party, De Konservative: 
Energy political spokesman: Ms. Helle Sjelle. E-mail: kfhesj@ft.dk 
Financial political spokesman: Ms. Gitte Seeberg. E-mail: kfgise@ft.dk 

The Danish Social Democratic Party, Socialdemokratiet: 
Energy political spokesman: Mr. Svend Auken. E-mail: Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk
Financial political spokesman: Ms. Pia Gjellerup. E-mail: spigj@ft.dk 

The Danish Social-Liberal Party, Det Radikale Venstre: 
Energy political spokesman: Mr. Martin Lidegaard. E-mail: rvmali@ft.dk 
Financial political spokesman: Mr. Morten Helveg Petersen. E-mail: rvmohp@ft.dk 

The Danish People's Party, Dansk Folkeparti: 
Energy political spokesman: Mrs. Aase D. Madsen. E-mail: dfaadm@ft.dk 
Financial political spokesman: Mr. Kristian Thulesen Dahl. E-mail: dfkrtd@ft.dk 

 

Dear Prime Minister, your excellency, Dear Minster, Dear Chairman of the Energy Committee, Dear Parliamentarian,

We have been informed of the decision of the Danish government to stop any form of support to renewable energies.

With the highest respect to your high function, allow us to say that renewable energies are now playing an important role in certain countries, but they will play a much more important one in the energy supply of the future. The decision of the Danish Government may endanger quite a lot the progress of the soft energy path around the world, and may endanger much more severely the respected Danish technology in this new industrial sector.

We as 2001 Poul laCour Award’s recipients would like to ask you, to ask the Danish government and to ask the Danish Parliament to make all the efforts to continue the path of strong support to renewable energies, specially in Denmark but also in Third World countries, like in the recent times.

We hope these words may led you to reconsider the real benefits that can be wisely attribute to the radical measures you are envisaging concerning renewable energies.

For our part we are sure that without the strong support that all the Danish Governments have given in the past to renewable energies and to all energy actors in the Danish society (like Folkecenter for Renewable Energies, Forum for Energy and Development, INFORSE, OVE, Energy Offices, . . . . . . ), today the renewable energies will not play the role they are playing in Denmark and in other countries, like our country, specially in wind energy.

 

With our deep respect

Miquel Cabré, Eng
Josep Congost, Ph.D. Eng.
Joaquim Corominas, Ph.D. Eng.
Pere Escorça, Ph.D.Eng. 
Hermen Llobet, Eng. 
Antoni Martinez, Eng. 
Josep Prats, Eng. 
Josep Puig, Ph.D. Eng. 
Pere Viladomiu, Eng. 
Xavier Traver, Eng.

Recipients of 2001 Poul laCour Award

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Dr. Hans-Peter Ahmels, Bundesverband WindEnergie e.V. (German Wind Energy Association), Germany

From : Dr. Hans-Peter Ahmels - BWE. , bwe_os@t-online.de
Date: 11. 2. 02 by fax
To: to the financial and energy political spokesmen of the parties in the Danish Parliament

 

Dear financial/energy political spokesman

we have learned with the utmost disbelief and concern that the Danish Government for 2002 and the following years will stop all further development or maintenance of the current level of renewable energies in Denmark.

Up to recent years, Denmark always had a marvellous name in the world for environmental conscience, a strong climate protection policy and for a consequent increase of the use of renewable energy technologies for heat and electricity supply. Denmark had acknowledged its international responsibility in the past; aware of being number 5 worldwide in terms of CO2 emissions per capita.

Denmark was the symbol for a sound interconnection between environmental awareness, sustainable growth and research and development.

It is a very sad story that we have to criticize a country and its wind industry for its government. A small country, which was the front runner for a new democratic approach to industry and development, for a sustainable, human and successful new renewable electricity sector, thus a role model for the world, where people also liked to come and visit. Denmark was a brand, a synonym for open-minded tolerance, wind power and environment; it may now become synonym for xenophobia, backward politics and pollution.

The Danish Renewable industry and especially the wind industry are amongst the market leaders worldwide. The Danish wind power industry is the third largest single export force of Denmark, next to pork and pharmaceutical products.

But a government, which kills renewable energies in its own country, reduces development aid for other countries and steps out from a sustainable policy guidance has to face increasing national and international hesitation. No one can afford to buy technology from a country, which is not supporting it in its own boundaries. This is the opinion from us as one of the largest European Wind Energy Associations. As long as Denmark is not clearly re-joining the sustainable industrial renewable world, the Danish wind industry will unfortunately be the one which will have to pay the bill. And this is only the result of Danish government policy.

We therefore urgently ask the government and the parliament of Denmark to re-join the Kyoto committed countries, to re-install all programmes in Denmark aiming at the development and increase of Renewable Energies Technologies.

 

Best regards

Dr. Hans-Peter Ahmels, Präsident
Bundesverband WindEnergie e.V. 
(German Wind Energy Association)

Herrenteichstraße 1
49074 Osnabrück
Germany

http://www.wind-energie.de

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Zoltán Vass, Green Energy Network, Hungary

From: Zoltán Vass , vasszoli@ENERGIAKLUB.hu 
Sent: 13. februar 2002 15:29
To: support4RE*folkecenter.dk & Danish MP´s and medias
Subject: Support letter for renewable energy sources and NGOs inDenmark

Top. :Statement of Hungarian NGOs on withdrawing support of renewable energy sources and related NGOs in Denmark

 

Your Excellency,

On behalf of the Hungarian Green Energy Network, which is the umbrella association of the 10 biggest Hungarian NGOs working on environmental friendly energy issues, we would like express our opinion regarding the new Danish National Budget proposal of the Conservative/Liberal Government.

Denmark proved to be the most advanced and leading country not just among European but other countries in America, Africa and Asia as well, in the topic of environmental protection and renewable energy development. This example and pattern gave a very strong basis to NGOs and professionals in all of these countries to point out Denmark as a direction that can be followed by our economies to a sustainable structure.

In parallel, supporting grass-root network of small independent organisations results in wide-spread information dissemination of the Danish technologies. In particular, Hungary has already taken advantage of such Danish NGOs, as a valuable co-operation on the topic of renewable energy technologies.

Therefore losing this position of Denmark will result in several adverse effects not just in Denmark but also in these countries.

If Denmark changes its clear and respectful policy of supporting renewable energy development, and thus more stable and environmentally friendly economy development:

  1. Supporting professionals will loose the evidence and the proof of such development, and this way it creates an extremely difficult situation for them to influence their politicians and decision makers to make measures favouring renewable energy development.
  2. As a direct consequence of such trend will reduce the sales of Denmark's one of the biggest export products, the renewable energy technologies.
  3. Such condition would create a condition favouring the traditional energy producers, thus the environmental consequence of the planned renewable energy sources budget reduction will be enormous world-wide.

For these reasons we strongly ask you to help change the present policy of the Liberal/Conservative government, and continue the support of the development and the spreading of renewable energy technologies.

 

Zoltán Vass
On behalf of the Green Energy Network Hungary

Green Energy Network
1519, Budapest
PO Box 411
Hungary

Supported by the following organisations:
Reflex Environmental Protection Association, Gyor, Hungary
E-misszió Environmental Protection Association, Nyíregyháza, Hungary 
Energia Klub, Budapest, Hungary 
Ökoszolgálat Association, Budapest, Hungary 
Independent Ecological Center, Budapest, Hungary 
Esztergomi Környezetkultúra Association, Esztergom, Hungary

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Prof. Elistratov V. & Volchek S., St. Petersburg State Technical University, St. Petersburg, Russia

From: Prof. Elistratov V. & Volchek S , vieg@cef.spbstu.ru 
Date: February 2002
To: Danish MP´s and medias

 

Dear Sirs,

Our department was shocked by news about Renewable Energy programs of Danish New Government.

As you know Saint-Petersburg State Technical University is one of the biggest and important Russian universities where 1000 students get the high education every year. The work of our department are based on the development of new principles and technologies of energy transformation, use of perspective materials, research and designing of installations for hydraulic, wind, solar and bioenergy transformation.

Denmark was always the positive example for us both the implementation Renewable Energy (RE) Sources and the competent policy of Danish Government who supports and finances all national programs for different kind of RE. Especially nowadays all people of the world understood a necessity to use RE because the traditional sources are almost exhausted.

We would like to have collaboration with Danish company and Centers which have experiences of many years and could help us to develop Russian RE market by transfer theirs technologies.

But now we are confused by New Situation in Denmark and perspectives to lose cooperation with NICE GREEN COUNTRY.

We think the New Danish Government makes mistake braking the Renewable Energy programs and destroying the GOOD REPUTATION of Denmark as country where the population health was one of the main aims of country.

 

Yours sincerely,

Prof. Elistratov V. (head of department)
Volchek S. (post-graduate of department)

St. Petersburg State Technical University
Reneweble Energy Sources & Hydro Power Engineering Departament
Polytechnicheskay str., 29,
195251 St.Petersburg,
Russia.

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Rossen Assenov, Sofia, Bulgaria

From: Rossen Assenov  , assenort@netscape.net
Date: 12 February 2002
To: Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Prime Minister of Danish Government Denmark

Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen,
Prime Minister of Danish Government
Denmark

Dear Prime Minister:

I am writing to you in order to express my great concern regarding the decision of the newly elected Danish government to terminate the funding for numerous organizations and programs involved in research, development, demonstration and promotion of renewable energy technologies in your country and abroad. In my opinion, this decision is a heavy blow not only to the people in Denmark who have worked tirelessly in favor of renewables, but also to all people on the international scene who have been regarding Denmark as the flagship country in the move to implementing concrete steps to make the human industrial activity (especially the one connected to energy production) truly friendly to the environment. It is my belief that the Danish government will suffer a serious decline in credibility and trust, especially in the light of the upcoming chairmanship of the European Union.

Last year I had the honor to participate in the training program in renewable energy technologies run by the Folkecenter for Renewable Energy in Hurup Thy. I cannot emphasize well enough now how much I appreciate this experience. To say that it has been an enlightenment to me will be too little. I could only feel utterly sorry that I am not citizen of a country which has achieved so enormously much in developing and implementing technologies that either do not pollute or have negligible impact on the environment. It is not only the wind turbines - it is also the farm biogass installations, the cars running on vegetable oil, the wave models that are so close to making a breakthrough, the water bio-purification systems, the PVs and so on. These technologies - and the thinking behind them - make Denmark a country from the future in opposite to a country like my own one which lives in the dark past. The past that comprises dirty and dangerous oil, coal and nuclear fueled energy production which has caused and keep causing enormous damage to the environment. 

Needless to say, the great achievements in the field of renewables that Denmark made so far were primarily due to the enthusiasm, commitment and faith of those Danes which trusted that humans and environment can co-exist under much better conditions. I recall with a great sense of respect my meetings and talks with many devoted people in Denmark who have developed or are still developing the technologies of the future - those that utilize renewable energy sources. This type of development - which in fact represents the eternal quest of humanity for true progress - deserves ultimate appreciation and support. Without support, no development - and no progress - are possible. In this sense, it surely does not sound too speculative that by cutting down the support for innovations in the field of remewables, the Danish government is actually cutting off the opportunity to bring closer the possibility to achieve real sustainable development in the foreseeable future. Is this what your government truly wants? I doubt this.

I can neither be advisor nor judge to the Danish government and its acts, but I heartily beg you to reconsider the decision to cut down the funding going to the renewables sector. This sector is not and cannot be represented only by one institution - Risoe National Laboratory. Many other Danish organizations are also vitally important players in the process of development, testing and application of renewable energy technologies. I do not have to mention that one brand of these technologies - the wind turbines - are the third best export of Denmark. The same can be valid for biogass and water bio-purification systems, engines running on vegetable oils and others. By cutting down the support for further needed innovations in these technologies, the Danish government disfavors itself.

Lastly, I will feel very sad if the decision to terminate the funding is enacted, since the Folkecenter for Renewable Energy may hardly be able to sustain its existence. I think if the Center is forced to close down its functioning, it will be bitter news to all people like me who have benefitted greatly from the activities of the organization. The Folkecenter has a great potential for developing, testing and promoting small scale renewable energy technologies (these having a great potential for export); as well as training people from all over the world which can be envoys of the Danish advanced technology. Surely there is a room for improvements, diversification of activities and better international work - no doubt the Center works hard towards this. However, without funding, no organization can exist - no matter how noble its ideas are. Please do not kill the Folkecenter, which has always been and may continue being a true pioneer in the progressive development.

 

Sincerely,

Rossen Assenov,BME, MEnS,

freelance consultant on development and management of environmental projects in Bulgaria and
former trainee in the Folkecenter for Renewable Energy Hurup Thy, Denmark

Krichim St. 35-43
B Sofia 1164
Bulgaria

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Werner Kiwitt, Artefact gGmbH Glücksburg/Ostsee, Germany

From:Werner Kiwitt - Artefact , info@artefact.de
Date: 11.2.2002
To:the fractions of the Danish parliament, Ministries in charge Other Organisations involved

 

To the fractions of the Danish parliament,
Ministries in charge
Other Organisations involved

Recent budget cuttings for sustainable energy initiatives, researchers et al

 

Honorable ladies and gentlemen,

With astonishment I learnt to know the recent and as far as I understand severe cuttings of cofunding contributions of the Danish state for a number of internationally working organisations.

Since about ten years our centre is cooperating with organisations such as the Folkecenter in Thy, the International Network for Sustainable Energy and other partners of the Forum for Energy and Development.

As an internationally operating training centre for technology transfer we jointly organized programmes for decision makers, technicians and other multiplicators from parastatals, business councils, energy management companies etc. such as the Asian-Pacific Centre for Technology Transfer, Carl Duisberg Foundation, Czech Energy Forum, German Foundation for International Development.

The mentioned Danish organisations played the phantastic role of an eye and door opener in the mutual interest of all: having attracted visitors from far more than 60 countries to Denmark and its convincing experience with economically sound sustainable growth this helped to open export markets for Danish wind, biomass and many other manufacturers , whether in Argentina, India or Germany.

Many countries including Germany often looked with jelousy to Denmark and this constructive and productive cooperation of Danish NGOs, private companies and statal bodies since this cooperation and its social and economical success was the most convincing export argument for Danish Know How. Therefore the now announced budget cuttings is not only a contradiction to and negation of internationally signed agreements of the Danish state concerning CO2 emission goals but economically counterproductive to the interests of the entire Danish export industry.

Though I highly respect the right of the democratically elected Danish government to souvereignly design their national policy I appeal to you to carefully regard the long lasting effects of short sighted decisions .

Respectfully

Werner Kiwitt
Managing Director
Artefact gGmbH Glücksburg/Ostsee
Bremsbergallee 35 
D-24960 Glücksburg
Germany

www.artefact.de

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Lars Baunsgaard Sand , Denmark

From: Lars Baunsgaard Sand , LBAS@vestas.dk
Sent: 11. februar 2002 11:29
To: min@oem.dk ; vanfr@folketinget.dk ; min@fm.dk ; vkian@folketinget.dk ; vkrje@folketinget.dk ; kfhesj@ft.dk ; kfgise@ft.dk ; dfaadm@ft.dk ; dfkrtd@ft.dk  
Subject: Åbent brev til regeringen

Åbent brev til regeringen.

Er der en fortrydelsesret ?

Før valget kunne jeg se logikken I at stemme for et regeringsskifte, nu kan jeg desværre ikke få øje på logikken længere.

Under valgkampen hvor løfterne om skattestop og skattelettelser blev til, kan jeg bl.a. mindes Marianne Jelved spørge Anders Fogh indgående om hvordan alle disse løfter skulle finansieres. Der blev ikke een gang givet et fyldestgørende svar på spørgsmålet.

Svaret har vi nu fået. Og det kan vel ikke undgås, at en del vælgere føler sig medskyldige I at vigtige arbejdspladser nedlægges. Der er vel også en del af de ramte der selv fik sat krydset det ”forkerte sted”.

Jeg kan fint leve med at der bliver ryddet op I råd, centre og nævn, der ikke længere udfører nødvendige opgaver.
Men at der skæres på områder som menneskerettigheder, trafiksikkerhed og vedvarende energi, har intet med fremsynet politik at gøre.
Nuvel, vindmøllebranchen er for længst blevet istand til selv at kunne financiere sin egen forskning, men hvad med brintteknologi, bølgeenergi, planteolie til transportformål, alternative og miljøvenlige byggematerialer osv. Områder der langtfra er blevet kommercielt interessante, men så vigtige for vores fremtid at de skal dyrkes.

Statslige tilskud skal netop bruges til at fremme, udvikle og opdyrke de områder så de kan blive kommercielt interessante.
Der bliver naturligvis stadig budgetteret med midler til vedvarende energi, men det er vigtigt at den forskning der bliver udført, er tilgængelig for såvel store som små virksomheder og iværksættere.

Nordvestjysk Folkecenter for vedvarende energi har fået sit årlige statslige tilskud beskåret med 8 mil. kr.
Jeg skal undlade at beskrive folkecenteret og dets forskningsområder, ligesom jeg ikke vil sammenligne de de 8 mil. med folkecenterets årlige budget. Disse vurderinger har I naturligvis overvejet nøje før I fjernede centerets bevilling. I har naturligvis også vurderet det samfundsmæssige udbytte af den ret beskedne investering på 8 mil. kr. p.a.

Hvordan tror I Danmark har opnået sin status som verdens førende indenfor vindenergi? Hvis vi skal fremme vores position og udvikle os til verdens førende på andre VE-områder skal der investeres, ikke spares.

 

Venlig hilsen

Lars Baunsgaard Sand
Batum Hedevej 18
8830 Tjele
Denmark

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Hein Aberson Solaroilsystems BV-Friesland-Netherlands, The Netherlands

From: Aberson Solaroilsystems , info@woodcon.nl 
Sent: zondag 10 februari 2002 14:17 
To: indland@pol.dk  ; chefred@information.dk  ; jp@jp.dk  ; redaktionen@berlinske.dk  ; vkian@folketinget.dk  ; vkrje@folketinget.dk  ; kfhesj@ft.dk  ; kfgise@ft.dk  ; svend_auken@socialdemokratiet.dk  ; rvmail@ft.dk  ; rvmohp@ft.dk  ; dfkrtd@ft.dk  ; min@oem.dk  ; dfaadm@ft.dk  ; vanfr@folketinget.dk  ; min@fm.d k ; folketinget@folketinget.dk  
Subject: Platform Biobrandstoffen/Solaroilsystems-Friesland-Nederland

Dear Sir, Madam,

Through press-informations we learned that the Danish Government wishes to terminate governmental support for research and development for sustainable,alternative and environmental friendly solutions for new energy sources.

This action would be in strong contrast to the new proposals of the European Commission (Document : COM.2001-547 of november 2001,)who are convinced that Europe should strongly support the use of alternative energy ,but at the same it would also create misbelief and confusion amongst other memberstates about the future intentions of the Danish government in this matter.

In North-West Europe we are impressed by the efforts and results made by the Danish Folkecenter for renewable energy(Danish Center for Plant Oil Technology),with whom we are in regular contact, and which we admire for their progressive approach in this field.

It would be disastrous if all progress made sofar ,would be wiped away by a government decision which is not in line with the expectations of the Danish and European citizens about a better and cleaner environment where also Denmark plays an important role.

On behalf of all Dutch supporters of biofuel developments, we appeal to your wisdom and common sense not to adopt this sort of legislation.

The Future belongs to them who create a basis of hope for the next generations !!

with kind regards

Hein Aberson
Solaroilsystems BV-Friesland-Netherlands

www.solaroilsystems.com

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Erkki Haapanen, Finnish Wind Power Association, Finland

From: Erkki Haapanen ,  erkki.haapanen@ky.inet.fi
Sent: 9. februar 2002 23:10
To: Folkecenter for Renewable Energy; ole.christensen@ft.dk ; min@oem.dk ; dfaadm@ft.dk ; vanfr@folketinget.dk ; min@fm.dk ; vkian@folketinget.dk ; vkrje@folketinget.dk ; kfhesj@ft.dk ; kfgise@ft.dk ; Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk ; spigj@ft.dk; rvmali@ft.dk ; rvmohp@ft.dk ; dfkrtd@ft.dk ; indland@pol.dk ; chefred@information.dk ; jp@jp.dk ; redaktionen@berlingske.dk  
Subject:  Disaster for Danish Renewable Energy New Government stops allnational renewable energy programmes.

To whom it may concern,

The Finnish Wind Power association has been informed about the Danish Governement intention to stopp Renevable Energy programs in Denmark.

We consider this to be a short sightig decicsion, which will influence not only in Denmark, but also here in Finland. We have kept the Danish wind power policy as a good example of long term thinking. We understand that the danish industry has gained a strong global market position thanks to the effective Danish policy to keep up strong home markets.

It may be, that the danish industry doesn't need any more home markets to maintain the leading position. If this deciscion cancels the planned projects and stalls any new development, however, it is sorry for wind power in whole world. Wind power is far from ready yet. There are still new generations of power plants to be developed. It will take at least an other ten years of intensive development to demonstrate competitive offshore wind power plants large enough to support any national energy supply.

We sincerelly hope that the Danish Government does not weaken the current national wind energy policy until a common set of acceptable rules are found within EU countries.

On behalf of the Finnish Wind Power Association

Erkki Haapanen, 
a board member of FWPA
Finland

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Dr.-Ing. Brigitte Schmidt, Solar Initiative Mecklenburg-Vorpommern e.V. and Europäische Sonnenenergie-Vereinigung e.V, Germany. 

From: Dr.-Ing. Brigitte Schmidt - solar initiative solar.simv@t-online.de
Sent: 12. februar 2002 08:49 
To: min@oem.dk ; dfaadm@folketinget.dk ; vanfr@folketinget.dk ; min@fm.dk ; ole.christensen@folketinget.dk ; vkian@folketinget.dk ; vkrje@folketinget.dk ; kfhesj@folketinget.dk ; kfgise@folketinget.dk ; Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk ; spigj@folketinget.dk ; rvmali@folketinget.dk ; rvmohp@folketinget.dk ; dfaadm@folketinget.dk ; dfkrtd@folketinget.dk ; indland@pol.dk ; chefred@information.dk ; jp@jp.dk ; redaktionen@berlingske.dk 
Subject: Danish Renewable Energy policy

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

STOP THE PLANNED REDUCTION OF THE BUDGET FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY

With consternation, we have heard that the Danish government has presented the draft of a strongly reduced budget for 2002 and the years to follow. All R&D programmes, financial support, committees, government agencies, etc that have been crucial in the development of renewable energy for twenty years will immediately be cancelled or dissolved.

Denmark has been an extraordinary example for the countries of the European Community and for all countries worldwide, which stand up for the decrease of CO2, fight for the employment of renewable energies and operate an active economic implementation. All this is gravely endangered now! We, i.e. the Solar Initiative Mecklenburg-Vorpommern e.V. and EUROSOLAR Regionalgruppe Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, have been co-operating with Danish universities and the Folkecenter for Reneable Energy fruitfully for many years.

One consequence of the reduction would be, that Folkecenter and its sister organisation, Forum for Energy and Development, lose their support. In addition to that, all national programmes for solar heat, biogas, biomass, hydrogen, photovoltaics, wave energy etc. would be forced to stop from 1 January 2002, too. We think that this is the wrong signal for the future!

Yours sincerely,

Dr.-Ing. Brigitte Schmidt

Solar Initiative Mecklenburg-Vorpommern e.V. and
Europäische Sonnenenergie-Vereinigung e.V. 
Regionalgruppe Mecklenburg-Vorpommern 
D-23966 Triwalk/ bei Wismar Haus-Nr. 9
Germany

http://www.solarmv.de

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Prof. dr. A. Verbruggen, University of Antwerp, Belgium

From: Prof. dr. A. Verbruggen , Aviel.Verbruggen@ufsia.ac.be
Date: Antwerpen, 13 februari 2002
Sent separately to

Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Prime Minister
Mr. Thor Pedersen,Minister of Finance
Mr. Bendt Bendtsen,Ministry of Economy and Trade
Mrs. Aase D. Madsen,Chairman of the Energy Committee

Dear Minister,

As I learned from press articles and mails, it seems your policy intends to give up on the pioneering and world-wide guiding role of Denmark in the sector of renewable energy and energy efficiency.

As a researcher, professor and policy advisor in energy matters since 1975, I always have considered the Danish example as very instructive and inspiring.

May I express with this letter my deep concern about the eventual decision of the Danish authorities in not continuing and extending this world-wide leadership. It is my only hope this letter can contribute to an adaptation of the latest developments.

Yours sincerely,

Prof. dr. A. Verbruggen, 

University of Antwerp
Onderzoeksgroep STEM, 
Kleine Kauwenberg 12,
B-2000 Antwerpen
Belgium

Vakgroep Milieu, Technologie en Technologiemanagement 

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Arjo Heinsola ,Technology for Life Organization , Finland 

From:Arjo Heinsola , arjo.h@surfeu.fi
To: Danish MP´s and medias

To Minister....., Mr...

Danish Government draft budget for 2002 is really a NEGATIVE SURPRISE!

Danish Renewable Energy Program has been World wide the leading example, how long term, relatively low, financial aid has created the World's leading Wind Power industry which gradually started from individual inventors and small and medium size industry.

In Denmark there are national programmes for solar thermal, biogas, biomass, hydrogen, photovoltaic, wave energy etc., some of which can lead to the World wide industry too. Dropping the aid away in the moment from the programmes and organizations which are working in Renewable Energy Sector, would be mistake. It would also cut many jobs and would prevent that ongoing promising progress.

Internationally Denmark has the imago of the Responsible Nation who really practically takes care of the Earth, it's environment and disadvantaged people in developing countries. That draft budget however shows that Denmark is going to change that imago.

That decision 17 years ago, not to go for nuclear power, made possible to save energy and develop the Renewable Energy Sector, due to which Denmark has managed to keep greenhouse gas emissions in a low level and thus fulfil the Kyoto Protocol requirements.

I strongly request You to reconsider the draft budget once again.

Sincerely Yours,

Arjo Heinsola
Government member of Technology for Life Organization, in Finland
Project Manager of Metener Ltd, Environment & Energy Technology
Finland

PS. When ever You are in contact with Finnish politicians and Parliament members, please convey Your DISAPPROVAL for Finnish Parliament's intention to give permission to construct a new NUCLEAR POWER STATION in Finland.

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Helmut Böhnisch, Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Stuttgart, Germany

From: Helmut Boehnisch , helmut.boehnisch@zsw-bw.de 
Date: Fri, 08 Feb 2002 12:32:12 +0100
To: vanfr@folketinget.dk  
CC: min@oem.dk , dfaadm@ft.dk , min@fm.dk 

Subject: Stop of all renewable energy programmes in Denmark

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Center for Solar Energy at Stuttgart, Germany is undertaking a research and demonstration project funded by the European Commission in co-operation with Folkecenter for Renewable Energies from Denmark. It's title is Biogas fired Cogeneration Plant Combined with Underground Seasonal Storage (Acronym: BICOGUSS).

For this reason it's of very strong concern for me, that you as members of the new Danish Government, made a decision to stop all national renewable energy programmes in Denmark. If Folkecenter therefor will lose it's economic basis, we will get tremendous problems, to go on with this project, because an important partner in the consortium will get lost.

Already twenty years ago, when I started my activities in the field of wind energy research, me and my colleagues always looked to Denmark as a master of the game to utilize renewable energies (wind energy, biomass, cogeneration). And I am sure that this early and still ongoing success had strong impact also to the development in Germany. Therefor it will be a great loss, if Denmark will give up it's European leadership, due to the fact that the draft budget planning of the New Government won't be withdrawn.

Yours sincerely

Helmut Böhnisch
Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Stuttgart
Germany

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Kees Schouten, Westfriese Windmolen Cooperatie U.A., The Netherlands

From: Kees & Lucia , kschouten@hetnet.nl 
Date: 7. februar 2002 19:05 
To: ole.christensen@ft.dk ; min@oem.dk ; dfaadm@ft.dk ; vanfr@folketinget.dk ; min@fm.dk ; vkian@folketinget.dk ; vkrje@folketinget.dk ; kfhesj@ft.dk ; kfgise@ft.dk ; Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk ; spigj@ft.dk ; rvmali@ft.dk ; rvmohp@ft.dk ; dfaadm@ft.dk ; dfkrtd@ft.dk ; indland@pol.dk ; chefred@information.dk ; jp@jp.dk ; redaktionen@berlingske.dk ; energy@folkecenter.dk ; windnet@yahoogroups.com 

Subject: Stopping national renewable energy programmes in Denmark

We are shocked to hear that the new Danish government is planning to cancel R&D programmes, financial support, committees and government agencies in the development of renewable energy.

Thanks to the governmental support the Danish wind industry has a leading role in the world, and is Denmark the country where renewable energy has a relatively large share in the total energy production. But as long as renewable energy does not cover 100 % of the energy consumption, more support is still needed. Less than 100 % is not enough. We have been using conventional power sources for more than 100 years; the only way to reduce the caused damage is to absolutely minimize the use of conventional power sources. You might think that support is not needed because the renewable energy industry is mature. But if you want to use 100 % renewable energy, the cost will rise. New technologies have to be developed because you can't totally depend on windpower.

If we don't minimize the use of conventional power sources, the cost will rise too. The climate is already changing, insurance companies want more money because the risks of natural disasters like storms and floods are getting bigger. Farmers will have difficulties producing more food, which is absolutely necessary because the world population is still growing.

Saving money now on energy programmes will lead to higher costs in the future.

Don't let our children pay the price for our welfare!

Kees Schouten
Westfriese Windmolen Cooperatie U.A.
The Netherlands

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Paul Gipe og Nancy Nies, Paul Gipe, USA

From: Paul Gipe pgipe@igc.org
Date: 6. februar 2002 20:34
To: Danish MP´s and medias

Subject: Restore Funding to Nordvestjysk Folkecenter for Vedvarende Energi/copie 

February 6, 2002

RE: Restore Funding to Nordvestjysk Folkecenter for Vedvarende Energi

 

Dear Prime Minister:

We strongly urge the Folketing to restore funding to the Nordvestjysk Folkecenter for Vedvarende Energi so that the Folkecenter can continue its pioneering work in renewable energy technology.

Many of us in the field of renewable energy have looked to Denmark as an example of rational energy policies. We have looked to the Folkecenter as a source of innovative technologies and a necessary counterweight to the concentration of political and financial power in the hands of a few.

Grundtvig would quickly see that the Folkecenter carries on his work and of his hopes for Danes and Denmark.

Med venlig hilsen,

Paul Gipe og Nancy Nies
Paul Gipe
208 S. Green St., #5; Tehachapi CA 93561-1741 USA; +661 822 9150; fax: +661 822 8452; pgipe@igc.org. Wind Power for Home & Business, Wind Energy Comes of Age, Wind Energy Basics, Energía Eólica Práctica, and Wind Power in View: Energy Landscapes in a Crowded World.

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Dr. Ingrid Wagner  Gf., Eurosolar-Austria , Austria

From: Eurosolar info@eurosolar.at
Date: 6. februar 2002 15:06
To: VIEAMB@UM.DK
Cc: Schmidt, Dr. Hans Otto

Subject: Disaster for Danish Renewable Energy

An
Königlich Dänische Botschaft
Führichgasse 6, A-1010 Wien
Tel: (01) 512 79 04. Fax: (01) 513 81 20.


Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren!

Wir sind über die Entwicklung in Dänemark auf dem Sektor Erneuerbare Energien, die uns von nachstehend genannten, mit uns zusammenarbeitenden Verein übermittelt wurde, sehr besorgt. Wir bitten Sie um Stellungnahme zu diesem Problem, das im Hinblick auf den nächsten EU-Vorsitz besondere Bedeutung hat.

Mit sonnigen Grüßen

Eurosolar-Austria
www.eurosolar.at
Dr. Ingrid Wagner  Gf. 

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Prof Ralph E H Sims, Centre for Energy Research, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand

From:  "Sims, Ralph" R.E.Sims@massey.ac.nz  - 04-02-2002 10:18 GMT
To:   min@oem.dk,dfaadm@ft.dk,vanfr@folketinget.dk,min@fm.dk
cc:    ole.christensen@ft.dk, vkian@folketinget.dk, vkrje@folketinget.dk, kfhesj@ft.dk, kfgise@ft.dk, Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk, spigj@ft.dk, rvmali@ft.dk,  rvmohp@ft.dk, dfaadm@ft.dk, dfkrtd@ft.dk, indland@pol.dk, chefred@information.dk , ,jp@jp.dk, redaktionen@berlingske.dk 

Subject:    Danish Renewable Energy Policy as seen from New Zealand

 

Open Letter To:

Minister of Economy and Trade, Mr. Bendt Bendtsen

Chairman of the Energy Committee, Mrs. Aase D. Madsen

Prime Minister, Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen

Minister of Finance, Mr. Thor Pedersen

 

The news that funding for Danish Renewable Energy research is to be drastically cut will have adverse ramifications around the world. The long term significance of this decision will have long term impacts akin to the September 11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Centre in New York.

All around the world Denmark has long been acknowledged as a lead country in the development and uptake of renewable energy systems. Your energy policy is often quoted as being a model solution (at least in part) towards reducing national greenhouse gas emissions. At a crucial stage of the development of the planet seriously threatened by climate change impacts, the ambitions of many to have a sustainable, equitable and decarbonised world of the future have taken a large step backwards as a result.

As a Lead Author of the IPCC Third Assessment Report on climate change, (released in June 2001: see www.ipcc.ch) with responsibility for the sections on renewable energy, energy supply and agriculture, it is apparent to me that the traditional producers of fossil fuel feel threatened by pending change and, having received massive hidden subsidies from governments for decades, are lobbying hard for these to continue.

The scientific facts however are clear. Climate Change is here now and will not go away. It is caused mainly by the burning of fossil fuels. Already there is growing evidence of more extreme weather events, many natural ecosystems are under threat, and sea level rise will continue for 600 years even if we stop burning fossil fuels tomorrow. Society has now to choose the future world in which we wish our children to live.

If we continue to utilise fossil fuels at an ever increasing rate and not seek competitive sustainable energy supply alternatives, there will be dire consequences, both in terms of sustainability and world peace. There is a cost involved in seeking alternative energy and greenhouse gas mitigation solutions, but the cost will be far greater if we do nothing.

Many nations, including New Zealand, have announced they will ratify the Kyoto Protocol at the Rio+ 10 meeting to be held in Johannesberg in September of this year. Officials are working hard to produce greenhouse gas reduction policies and to develop mechanisms and measures to support renewable energy and energy efficiency uptake. These will help mitigate the problem. In many cases Denmark has been identified as the country to emulate. It now appears that with a stroke of the 2002 national budget pen, this national leadership role has been lost.

It is ironic that with the recent collapse of the American energy company Enron, only the division "Enron Wind" appears to have been financially successful. Danish wind, solar, bioenergy, straw, and biogas energy research and development have been very well respected. So why on earth change the support policy now just when the sustainable future of the world needs all the help it can get?

 

Prof Ralph E H Sims

Director, Centre for Energy Research
Massey University
Palmerston North
New Zealand

Tel: +64 6 3505288
Fax: +64 6 3505604
Home phone +64 6 3573257

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Dr. Stefan Szabó, SOSNA, Slovak Republic

From: sosna@changenet.sk sosna@changenet.sk
Date: 6. februar 2002 09:51
To: Folkecenter - DK; min@oem.dk;  dfaadm@ft.dk;  vanfr@folketinget.dk; min@fm.dk 

Subject: Re: Disaster for Danish Renewable Energy - New Government stops all national renewable energy programmes

 

Dear person,

I was very alarmed with the information which I received from Preben Maegaard, director, Folkecenter for Renewable Energy, Vice-president of EUROSOLAR.

As I lerned from his message, new Danish Government stops all national renewable energy programmes.

On January 29 2002, the new liberal/conservative Danish government presented the draft budget for 2002 and the coming years. All R&D programmes, financial support, committees, government agencies etc that for 20 years have been crucial in the development of renewable energy will immediately be cancelled or dissolved.

This facts will have a very negative influence on the Folkecenter.

In 1999 I visited the Folkecenter with my students of Department of Earth Resources, Technical University Košice (Slovak republic). During one week of stay we got unique information and skills on renewably energy. This visit had a very positive influence on my students, which will disseminate their knowledge in our country. Because of that I am very concerned with the future of Folkecenter.

I hope that Danish policymakers will change their attitudes toward the sustainable future and will act again as a leader of green policy.

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Stefan Szabó

SOSNA
Prazska 2
040 11 Kosice
Slovak Republic

tel-fax: 00 421 55 644 51 24

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Gustav R. Grob on behalf the Board of CMDC-WSEC, Geneva, Switzerland 

From: INFO ICEC info@icec.ch
Date: 6. februar 2002 08:36
To: Thor Pedersen; Bendt Bentsen; Josep Puig; World Council for Renewable Energy; Aase D. Madsen; Rasmussen Anders Fogh
Cc: Svend Auken; WHO von Schirnding; Samuel P. Mauch; Doris; José Goldemberg; Immo Ströher; Dr. Klaus Rave; C.J.Campbell; bobzweig@bncloans.com; Benoit Lebot; Arik; Hermann Scheer; Richard Ottinger; Berlingske Tidende; Information Denmark; Kristian Thulesen Dahl; Morten Helveg Petersen; Pia Gjellerup; Gitte Seeberg; Kristian Jensen; Gérard MAGNIN; Kim Andersen; Sjelle Helle; Martin Lidegaard; Aase D. Madsen; Politiken Denmark; Jyllands Posten:; Pincas Jawetz; Harry Lehmann; Adrian Bradbrook; Armin Reller; Bertrand Charrier;Burkhard Holder; Cyril Ritchie; Folkecenter; Jean-Marc Cottier; Mark Radka; Nejat T. Veziroglu; Sebastian Winkler; Wolfgang Palz

Subject: Re: urgent support to RE in DK

 

Dear Danish Friends,

We fully agree with the deep concerns of the large Danish Renewable Energy Community, INFORSE, the Folkecenter and the World Council for Renewable Energy as expressed below about the future role of Demark in the development and efficient use of clean, sustainable energy systems.  We also appeal to all Danish policy makers to rethink unwise moves against the decentralized, sustainable energy production, which is the only future avenue to a balanced biosphere and climate, so crucial to the important agricultural sector and renewable energy industry in Denmark and abroad with many more jobs at stake than with antiquated unsafe energy sources.  We expect a better political leadership by Denmark at the forthcoming Johannesburg Summit of the United Nations and as Members of the European Community, which fully supports sustainable energy.  Remember also the excellent energy efficiency and renewable energy programs we had both in Denmark and Switzerland called ENERGY 2000, worth extending for more action.

We draw your attention to the Global Energy Charter, which was co-initiated by Denmark and the United Nations at the World Clean Energy Conference in Geneva in 1991 as an international sustainable energy policy guideline.  It was updated also with Danish support at the CLEAN ENERGY 2000 Conference attended again by over 100 nations, 50 NGOs and 15 UN agencies in Geneva - see www.cmdc.net - and we urge you also to join the international energy committee ISO/TC203, which is working on international standards for the analysis of energy systems and comprehensive energy statistics and planning tools.  We had a meeting in Copenhagen with this committee a few years ago and hope for an active follow-up benefiting a sound Danish energy policy, rather than a fallback into the harmful fossil and nuclear death track, which is presently also endangering the illegally assigned administration in the USA with the ENRON scandal and more revelations about presidential election manipulations financed by such dirty energy industries, which should be unthinkable in old democracies like Denmark and Switzerland. We wish all of you the courage not to follow such bad examples of utterly wrong, corrupted energy policies which are endangering the survival on our precious planet Earth.

You will have much less hospital costs and sick senior citizens, if public funds are invested into clean energy technologies, rather than wasted on belated health care for patients sickened by pollution and radiation or on inundated coastal areas by rising oceans due to global warming !!

For more information about ISO or the Global Energy Charter, you are welcome to contacting us !

 

Gustav R. Grob on behalf the Board of CMDC-WSEC, Geneva
President, World Sustainable Energy Coalition CMDC-WSEC, Geneva
President, International Clean Energy Consortium ICEC, Morgarten-Zug
Board Member of the International Energy Foundation IEF
Founder of ISO/TC197 on Hydrogen Energy Technologies
Co-Founder of ISO/TC203 on Technical Energy Systems
Chairman ISO/TC203/WG3 Energy Systems Analyses
POB 63, CH-6315 Morgarten / Zug

T:  0041-41-754-4090
F:  0041-41-750-9020
E:  info@cmdc.net    &    info@icec.ch

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Ursula Holzinger, Austrian Wind Energy Association, Austria

From: Ursula Holzinger , u.holzinger@igwindkraft.at
Sent: 5. februar 2002 10:52 
To: 
Subject: Continue Denmark`s succesfull energy policy!

 

Dear Sir/Madame,

We have learned that all R&D programmes, financial support, committees, government agencies etc that for 20 years have been crucial in the development of renewable energy will immediately be cancelled or dissolved in Denmark.

This is a blow for us, as we have always refered to the Danish energy policy as a model for Austria and Europe. We cannot understand why the new Danish government gives up the succesful policy for renewable energy that has created this big and prospering industry.

Especially with respect to the Danish EU Chairmanship in the second half of 2002 we must express deep concern about the fact that the new Danish government is about to kill the renewable energy sector.

"There will be wind power as the wind blows?" It is not that simple. Renwebable energies need a reliable legal framework. So far, Denmark has set an example for Europe that points the way ahead.

We strongly ask you to change your mind and continue the innovative energy policy that has been characteristic for Denmark for many years.

 

Yours sincerely

Ursula Holzinger
Austrian Wind Energy Association
Wienerstraße 22
A-3100 St. Pölten
Austria

www.igwindkraft.at

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Semida Silveira, PhD, Swedish National Energy Administration, Sweden

From: Semida.Silveira@stem.se Semida.Silveira@stem.se
Date: 5. februar 2002 13:51
To: min@oem.dk; dfaadm@ft.dk; vanfr@folketinget.dk; min@fm.dk; vkian@folketinget.dk; vkrje@folketinget.dk; kfhesj@ft.dk;  kfgise@ft.dk; Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk; spigj@ft.dk; rvmali@ft.dk; rvmohp@ft.dk; dfaadm@ft.dk; dfkrtd@ft.dk; ole.christensen@ft.dk 
Cc: energy*folkecenter.dk

Subject: Danish retreat?

 

Dear politicians,

how can Denmark make such a retreat after so many years leading the renewable energy task force that will take us to a sustainable future?

I always admired how Denmark put together energy policy and industrial policy when developing wind power. The result is that Denmark is a leader in the development of wind power technology. Why not apply the model in other areas?

hope for second thoughts of the Danish government.

 

Semida Silveira, PhD
Swedish National Energy Administration

tel: 46-16-5442121; fax: 46-16-5442262; mobile: 46-70-6659969
internet: http://www.stem.se

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 Anselme Nahmtante YABOURI, Compagnie Africaine de Developpement (CAfriD), BENIN (West-Africa)

From: Anselme Nahmtante YABOURI anselmeyabouri@yahoo.fr
Date: 5. februar 2002 12:04
To: vanfr@folketinget.dk 
Cc: energy*folkecenter.dk; min@oem.dk; dfaadm@ft.dk; vanfr@folketinget.dk; min@fm.dk; vkian@folketinget.dk; vkrje@folketinget.dk; kfhesj@ft.dk; kfgise@ft.dk; Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk; rvmali@ft.dk; rvmohp@ft.dk; dfkrtd@ft.dk; Folketinget@folketinget.dk; indland@pol.dk; chefred@information.dk; jp@jp.dk; redaktionen@berlingske.dk 
Subject:

 

Dear Prime Minister,

I'm sorry to disturb you for a while by sending this humble mail therefore  quite short to avoid wasting your time.

I heard and read through the media that your government is claiming conservatism to adopt severe policies vis-a-vis immigrants and strangers.

Because I have faced political intolerance in Africa as a former student-union and human-rights leader and I have witnessed while working for the United Nations ethnical intolerance and irrational hate in eastern Europe and the Balkans between people who do coexist for centuries , I can easily understand the situation in your country that has built up your policy and brought you to power. Indeed, any psychologist knows perfectly that in period of crisis or recession any normal individual becomes openless, more stressed, less rational and sometimes a bit agressive. I'm hence convinced that the Danish government and the people it represents will surely quickly come back to "normality" once economic growth is back. The small west-african country where I do reside, usually known for its legendary hospitalitly and peacefull mind, is also facing a bit wave of intolerance vis-à-vis nigerian people accused of "invasion"; despite all efforts from the local government to address this irrational state of mind. And we can witness a similar situation in the US these days, following the 11th September attack.

But what the businessman that I'm today can't frankly understand is how a whole Nation can deliberately choose to sacrifice its own future. Even when a desperate person decides to suicide, that person kills him or herself alone (let's eclude the case of kamikaze terrorists).

So, knowing that the future of a Nation lies heavily on innovation and a secured control of energy sources needed to sustain its economic activities, how is it that a government can cancel all support to research and innovation in that vital field?

I still can't believe my eyes while reading the lines telling me that your government is about to stop all support to innovation and research in the field of renewable energy with the pretext of redirecting the funds to hospitals and old people pensions.

There's surely a misunderstanding somewhere. People have probably made a wrong interpretation of your intentions and declarations simply because no government can even dream about taking such a measure.

For it's like deciding to close all kindergarten and primary schools that represent future and redirecting the funds to mortuaries and cimeteries with the pretext that they lack money to be more operational, clean and hygienic. Wich doesn't mean that one shouldn't take care of mortuaries and cimeteries, but it's being insane by pretending to solve my problem of feeding my cattle to cut and sacrifice my wheat crop almost ready for harvest.

No, Mister the Prime Minister, I'm sure that people are either misinterpretating you or they are powered with bad intentions: that's pure calomny! you cannot do that. Isn't it?

Please, send me reply to confirm that they are lying.

 

Sincerly yours,

Anselme Nahmtante YABOURI,
Chief Executive Officer,
Compagnie Africaine de Developpement (CAfriD),

Tel +229  327726   / +229 013588
01 BP 5252 Recette Principale Cotonou
BENIN (West-Africa)

cafrid@intnet.bj anselmeyabouri@yahoo.fr

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Dr. Michael Stöhr ,Director of International Projects, B.A.U.M. AG, GERMANY

From: Michael Stöhr stoehr@baum-consult.de
Date: 5. februar 2002 11:28
To: min@oem.dk; dfaadm@ft.dk; vanfr@folketinget.dk; min@fm.dk; vkian@folketinget.dk; vkrje@folketinget.dk; kfhesj@ft.dk; kfgise@ft.dk; Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk; spigj@ft.dk; rvmali@ft.dk; rvmohp@ft.dk;  dfaadm@ft.dk; dfkrtd@ft.dk; indland@pol.dk; chefred@information.dk; jp@jp.dk; redaktionen@berlingske.dk

Subject: Concern about Stop of Support for Renewable Energies in Denmark

 

Dear Ministers, dear Deputies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I was deeply shocked by the information which received me from the Danish Folkecenter for Renewable Energies about the severe shortages which were decided by the Folketinget on the support for renewable energy generation and use in Denmark. The shock is so strong, because this decision was taken in THE COUNTRY which myself and many colleagues all around Europe considered as leading worldwide with regard to innovative renewable energies application.

It is very difficult to understand, why Denmark is taking a step which most probably will severly damage one of its most innovative, worldwide competitive and booming industries. Well, from a purely German point of view, I could say that struggle for the Danish wind energy industry – the worldwide leader in the field - would be a great chance for the German wind industry to take over the worldwide leadership. But as the co-ordinator of a European consortium aiming at bringing communities to 100% renewable energy supply, and as both a convinced European and a convinced supporter of renewable energy use worldwide, I can not make such a narrow view of the situation my own.

I would very much regret, if my Danish colleagues in the field of renewables, whom I know from many joint projects and conferences, and whom I estimate very much, would be urged to strongly reduce their excellent work. For this reason, I beg you to reconsider your decision concerning the further support of renewables in your country.

 

Sincerely yours, Dr. Michael Stöhr 

Co-ordinator of 100% RENET - Network of Rural Communities aiming at Very High RE Rate

New office address since 18.12.2001:
Dr. Michael Stöhr
Director of International Projects
B.A.U.M. AG
Schwere-Reiter-Str. 35 Geb. 17
80797 München
GERMANY

Email m.stoehr@baum.ag  
www.baum-group.de

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Sarah Ward, ENERGY & DEVELOPMENT GROUP, NOORDHOEK, South Africa

From:      Sarah Ward sarah@edg.co.za
Sent:      Tuesday, February 05, 2002 10:36 AM
To:        vkrje@folketinget.dk and other MP´s

Subject:   Denmark: leading renewable energy light

Dear Mr Jensen

We are extremely distressed to hear that Denmark is  intending to cut ALL financing of renewable energy programmes in Denmark.  Denmark has long been a foremost leading light in the promotion of renewable energy and your praises are sung far and wide.  Many people, including myself and many of my colleagues, have had the good fortune to visit Denmark and see first hand the incredible progress you have made.  We now have many energy offices and renewable energy programmes running in South Africa DIRECTLY AS A RESULT of the example and the support provided by Denmark.  My organisation actively runs programmes with local authorities in South Africa: we depend on Denmark to continue providing the example that you do and to provide innovation in the field.  WITHOUT YOUR SHINING EXAMPLE many of the programmes running around the world in developing and developed countries will not be able to continue.  So it is not only Denmark that will suffer the consequences but the globe.

PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS.  Denmark will loose it's footing as a much admired innovator, market leader and champion of this all too important field -.  We are already facing catastrophic climate impacts from global energy use.  The consequences of Denmark retracting, nay - stopping, its commitment to renewable energy is too horrible to contemplate.

I cannot express strongly enough how devastating we find this news.

 

Yours sincerely

Sarah Ward
Manager:  urban Sustainable Energy, Environment and Development Programme

***************************************************************************************

Sarah Ward
ENERGY & DEVELOPMENT GROUP
P O Box 261, NOORDHOEK, 7985

Tel : + 27 -21- 789-2920;  Fax: + 27- 21- 789-2954
Email: sarah@edg.co.za;  web: www.edg.co.za

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Dr. Volker Oschmann, Berlin, Germany

From: volker.oschmann@gmx.de volker.oschmann@gmx.de
Date: 5. februar 2002 09:26
To: volker.oschmann@gmx.de
Subject:

 

Dear Sir,

I am very concerned that the new Danish government is planning to cancel the financial support for renewable energy agencies and committees and all R & D programmes.

I believe that the leading position of Denmark in the renewable energy sector (especially wind power) has been crucial for the development of sustainable energy in the European Union and as a positive example for the whole world.

In order to fulfil the Kyoto-Commitments and to reach the EU targets of doubling the share of renewable energies it is absolutely necessary to follow the leading countries like Denmark, knowing very well that we will have to do even more if we want to stop climate change and save the planet for our children.

I therefore would like to ask you to use all your possibilities to stop the plans of cutting support for renewable energies and to continue on the successful Danish way of creating a sustainable energy system.

Yours,

Sincerely

Dr. Volker Oschmann
Driesener Straße 29
10439 Berlin
Germany

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Paul Kenny, School of Architecture, University College Dublin, Ireland

From: Paul Kenny paul.kenny@ucd.ie
Date: 4. februar 2002 17:18
To: dfaadm@ft.dk; min@oem.dk; vanfr@folketinget.dk; min@fm.dk;kfhesj@ft.dk 
Cc: energy*folkecenter.dk 

Subject: Cancellation of Renewables Programme

 

I have just learnt of your plans to eliminate funding to the majority of RE in Denmark and I have to express my shock, disappointment and bewilderment.

I have worked with colleagues from Denmark for 10 years on a range of research projects and have been truly inspired by them and Denmark itself. Many in my community see Denmark as the most exemplary Member State in the EU if not in the world in this and many related fields.

I am without words. Not only do you harm the interests of Denmark, and be sure of that, but of the whole world. I am not over stating my case!! This is bigger than just job loss, much bigger. It is not too late to change your minds.

 

Paul Kenny
College Lecturer
School of Architecture
University College Dublin
Richview, Clonskeagh
Dublin 14, Ireland

Tel: +353.1-716 2757
Fax: +353.1-283 7778

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Edward Beggs, President, Neoteric Biofuels Inc., Canada

From: Neoteric Biofuels Inc. info@biofuels.ca
Date: Thu, 31 Jan 2002 18:13:38 -0800
To: <vanfr@folketinget.dk> 

Subject: Protesting your governmen'ts decision on renewable energy


Denmark has built a reputation  in renewable energy that many people in the rest of the world respect and point to. This decision to stop supporting RE is a bad decision for Denmark. Please reconsider. Consider the benefits accrued so far...and what your people might achieve in the next 20 years if support is continued. Denmark should continue to lead the rest of the world in renewable energy.

Edward Beggs, B.E.S., M.Sc.
President, Neoteric Biofuels Inc.
Canada

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Mamadou Saliou DIALLO, GUINEE ECOLOGIE, Guinea, West Africa

From: "Mamadou Saliou Diallo" dmsaliou@afribone.net.gn
To: <cts@mail.dk>
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2002 1:11 PM

Subject: Mesage envoyé à des personnalités du Danemark

 

Dear

- Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Prime Minister,
- Mr. Thor Pedersen, Minister of Finance,
- Mr. Bendt Bendtsen, Minister of Economy and Trade,
- Mrs. Aase D. Madsen, Chair of the Energy Committee,
- Mr. Kim Andersen, Energy political spokesman, The Danish Liberal Party, Venstre
- Mr. Kristian Jensen,Financial political spokesman, The Danish Liberal Party, Venstre
- Ms. Helle Sjelle, Energy political spokesman, The Danish Conservative Party,De Konservative,
- Ms. Gitte Seeberg, Financial political spokesman, The Danish Conservative Party, De Konservative
- Mr. Svend Auken, Energy political spokesman, The Danish Social Democratic Party, Socialdemokratiet
- Ms. Pia Gjellerup,Financial political spokesman, The Danish Social Democratic Party, Socialdemokratiet
- Mr. Martin Lidegaard, Energy political spokesman,The Danish Social-Liberal Party, Det Radikale Venstre
- Mr. Morten Helveg Petersen, Financial political spokesman,The Danish Social-Liberal Party, Det Radikale Venstre
- Mrs. Aase D. Madsen,Energy political spokesman,The Danish People's Party, Dansk Folkeparti
- Mr. Kristian Thulesen Dahl,Financial political spokesman,The Danish People's Party, Dansk Folkeparti

This message is coming to you from an NGO voice in Guinea, West Africa, one of the less developped country in the world. We have bad news regarding renewable energy programmes in Danemark that are cut off by the new government. We are so surprised as we know in Africa that Danemark is a leading country in the battle to save our earth from negative impacts of bad energy programmes. Until now, we have great admiration for your country, your people and your politicians for that kind of policy. And in the process of preparing Rio+10 taking place in Johannesburg, in the current year, one can expect to hear from Danemark that the country is not going out from supporting the renewable energy programmes.

We are all concerned by leaving now so near each other in the global village, with all the progress brought by the new technologies, that we in less developped countries are really expecting from all northern developed countries to support energy programmes that save our little beautiful planet.

Please keep Danemark now and in the future as a leading country for global sustainable developement. Think to us, we need each other as human being living in a fragile world.

 

Regards.

Mamadou Saliou DIALLO
GUINEE ECOLOGIE

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Muhammad Amer Khaqan, Saudi Methanol Company (Arrazi), Saudi Arabia

From: Khaqan, Mohammed A. AKhaqan@ARRAZI.com
Date: 2. februar 2002 13:29
To: min@oem.dk; dfaadm@ft.dk; vanfr@folketinget.dk; min@fm.dk;  vkian@folketinget.dk;  kfhesj@ft.dk;  Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk;  rvmali@ft.dk;  dfaadm@ft.dk;  indland@pol.dk;  chefred@information.dk;  jp@jp.dk;  redaktionen@berlingske.dk 
Cc: energy*folkecenter.dk 

Subject: Danish Renewable Energy policy

Dear sir

Let me express my deep concern over the proposed step of Danish Government to stop all renewable energy programmes for 2002 and future. This step coming from one of the leaders in the field of renewable energy is a shock to the rest of the world, especially those dealing in renewable energy and those concerned about the environment of the world.

As you know, due to the strong presence of oil companies & conventional methods of power generation, we are already having a very hard time to build up a case of renewable energy being a wonderful alternate to conventional forms of energy generation and have many a times relied on quoting your country as a role model. We were thinking of following your footsteps to a better world This drastic step coming from the role model leaves us speechless.

As much as I don't want to admit, the cover up of a bigger role played by the conventional energy sector in ensuring this ban on renewables seems evident. Why else would a programme which produces win-win results be axed suddenly.

We urge strongly that this ban be reversed completely and for the sake of the future of the world and subsequent generations, the renewable energy must be given a fair chance. Denmark must rise to the position of a leader in the field of renewables and shouldn't disappoint the rest of the world.

Best regards.

Muhammad Amer Khaqan
Environment engineer
Member ASES (American Solar Energy Society, USA)
Member SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers, USA)
Saudi Methanol Company (Arrazi)
Jubail, Saudi Arabia.

Tel: +966 3 358 4744 x 8053
Fax: +966 3 358 2600
akhaqan@arrazi.com  

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Silvio Coletti, BiomassEnergySystemsTechnology(BEST), USA

From: silvio coletti silviocoletti@yahoo.com
Date: 1. februar 2002 19:34
To: Niels Anso , and Danish MP´s and medias

Subject: Renewable Energy

 

 Hon.Prime minister          :Mr.AndersFogh Rassmussen
 Hon.Chair. of Energ.Commitee:MRs.Aase D. Bentsen
 Hon.Min. of Economy&Trade   : Mr.Bent Bentsen

RE: Renewable Energy

 

Distinguished Madam/Gentlemen

WE have been informed recently of the decision taken by the Gov. of Danmark to cease to support the programs related to the renewable energy.

We are deeply worried and concerned by this policy change.

Danmark has been a leader and example to the world, in developing new renewable sources of energy. The succes of these policies being reflected in the stong position of the wind generators developed and manufactured in Danmark and now being installed in America and around the world.

We have been priviledged in benefiting from the extraordinary cooperation of FOLKECENTER in our efforts to promote the development of Biomass Energy sources in the USA and we hope the Governemt of Danmark will carefully consider its decision.

DANMARK is regarded by us as an example of responsible management of the resouces and a success story to be imitated by the larger and wasteful countries around the world.

We respectfully thank you for dedicating your time to read our comment and we are certain that you will evaluate with serious concern the decision to reduce the effort your Country has dedicated to this sector of the Economy.

 

Yours Respectfully

BiomassEnergySystemsTechnology(BEST)
Silvio COletti (Engineer E.T.S.)

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Jackie Carpenter, Energy 21, UK

From: Jackie Carpenter jackiecarpenter@care4free.net
Date: 1. februar 2002 07:37
To: min@oem.dk;  dfaadm@ft.dk;  Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen ; Mr. Thor Pedersen
Cc: E-mail: vkian@folketinget.dk;  Energy political spokesman: Ms. Helle Sjelle. E-mail: kfhesj@ft.dk;  Financial political spokesman: Ms. Gitte Seeberg. E-mail: kfgise@ft.dk;  Energy political spokesman: Mr. Svend Auken. E-mail: Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk ; Financial political spokesman: Ms. Pia Gjellerup. E-mail: spigj@ft.dk ; Energy political spokesman: Mr. Martin Lidegaard. E-mail: rvmali@ft.dk;  Financial political spokesman: Mr. Morten Helveg Petersen. E-mail: rvmohp@ft.dk;  Energy political spokesman: Mrs. Aase D. Madsen. E-mail: dfaadm@ft.dk;  dfkrtd@ft.dk;  energy*folkecenter.dk;  Energy 21; indland@pol.dk;  chefred@information.dk;  jp@jp.dk

Subject: Astonishment from the UK

 

PLEASE THINK AGAIN - DO NOT WITHDRAW FUNDING SUPPORT FROM RENEWABLE ENERGY

I am the Director of Energy 21 in the UK, working for a renewable energy future. We believe strongly that such as future will be good for people socially and economically as well as good for the environment. We have a vision of a future based on 100% renewable energy without the fear of global warming, nuclear pollution, oil wars and eventually chaos when the oil and gas resources end.

We have always looked to Denmark as the best and most enlightened example of renewable energy development.

We are therefore astonished, shocked and horrified at the news that the Danish Government is withdrawing all funding from its renewable energy programme.

Please amend this policy and continue to be the world leaders in this most important and fundamental area of making the world a better place for humanity!

 

Jackie Carpenter
Director
Energy 21
UK

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Ali Eltari, Albanian Ecological Club- International Friends of Nature, Albanian Environmental NGO Forum, ALBANIA

From: Ali ELTARI eco-club@san.com.al
Date: 31. januar 2002 21:37
To: ole.christensen@ft.dk 
Cc: min@oem.dk;  dfaadm@ft.dk ; vanfr@folketinget.dk , min@fm.dk; vkian@folketinget.dk;  vkrje@folketinget.dk;  kfhesj@ft.dk; Svend_Auken@socialdemokratiet.dk;  spigj@ft.dk;  rvmali@ft.dk;rvmohp@ft.dk;  energy*folkecenter.dk;  ove@inforse.org

Subject:

 

Dear Ole Vagn Christensen, Bendt Bendtsen, Mrs. Aase D. Madsen, Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Mr. Thor Pedersen, Mr. Kim Andersen, Mr. Kristian Jensen, Ms. Helle Sjelle, Mr.  Svend Auken,  Ms. Pia Gjellerup, Mr. Martin Lidegaard, Mr. Morten Helveg Petersen,

My organization, that have profit from experience of Folkecenter, INFORSE etc, see that yours politics thinking for future is disaster for Renewable Energy and to stops all national renewable energy programmers. We think yours idea is similar of Albanian Governmental that before 25 said: "We are the best in Europe for person." End from that time do not construct new hydropower station or something for energy in continue. Now we are at end of Europe. If you have now a mistake, yours people will suffer after some years.

 

Sincerely 

Ali Eltari
President of Albanian Ecological Club- International Friends of Nature.
President of Albanian Environmental NGO Forum.
Rr. Todi Shkurti P.13 Sh.4 Ap.32 Tirana ALBANIA

Tel/ fax: ++ 355 4 373 148

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Victor German Robayo, Colombia

From: Victor German Robayo vgrobayo@colomsat.net.co
Date: 2. februar 2002 16:53
To: dfaadm@ft.dk 
Cc: Niels Ansø

Subject: What a shame

Dear Sir

Recently I heard the news about the new Danish Government Policy over Renewable Energies. It is a shame that one of the most encouraging governments tend to do a step back in the promotion of energetic solution for a world in crisis.

I am from Colombia, South America, and thanks to the Folkencenter for Renewable Energy, where I passed few moths as a trainee, I learned a lot about R.E. and appreciated the efforts to make a better world. At the same time I admired the Danish Government attitude face to Renewable Energies and private initiatives. I do not really understand why the change in policy, do you want to go back to the past?

I have the deep conviction that the new policy is a mistake that will be corrected.

Best Regards

German Robayo

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