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Samsø – Denmark's renewable energy island

In 1998, Samsø was awarded the title "Denmark's Renewable Energy Island" and since then, the population on the green island situated between Zealand and Jutland has become self-sufficient in renewable power and even exports surplus electricity from wind turbines. Furthermore, the islanders have succeeded in reducing their emission of CO2 considerably, at a time when the emission of greenhouse gases in general is on the rise in Denmark.

Samsø – Denmark's renewable energy islandSustainability in many ways

A good 10 years ago, Samsø received the honour of becoming Denmark's first subsidised CO2 neutral island which is something the local population has accepted enthusiastically; despite the subsidy given by the government, most long-term investments in green technology originates from the islanders themselves. This is e.g. the case with the island's many wind turbines which not only cover the islands own electricity requirements, but produces enough electricity to export clean energy to other parts of the country.

In order to reduce CO2 emissions, the islanders have invested in heat plants, which run solely on locally produced biomass, namely straw and woodchips. Concurrently, energy consultants have advised the local house owners on energy-saving measures and local plumbing companies have become certified to install partly subsidised "green technology" in companies and private homes. – Public transportation has also been affected by the many measures. As a result, regular bus services have been replaced by a more energy-efficient telebus system where busses drive on request.


Samsø – Denmark's renewable energy islandExperience "Denmark's Renewable Energy Island" with your own eyes

If you want to experience "Denmark's renewable energy island" in person, it is a good idea to start out with a visit to Samsø Energy Academy where you can learn more about the results from the island and "green technology" in general. And then it's just all about exploring the island dedicated to a sustainable future. And if you want to contribute to a cleaner environment yourself, leave the car behind and bring a bike or your hiking boots. It is also possible to rent a bike on the island - or as one of the few places in the country, you can go on a horse-drawn carriage tour.   


Links

Samsø Touristbureau
Hotels on Samsø
Camping Sites on Samsø
Hostels on Samsø
Attractions on Samsø
Activities on Samsø

Samso Energy Academy     
Monday, December 22 2008
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