Computing the energy problem

18 January 2010

Andrew Herbert from Microsoft Research participated in a green IT seminar in Brussels, which brought together computer scientists, economists, industry executives and European Union officials.

The seminar examined the potential of computers to save energy and the obstacles that are standing in the way of realising that potential. It was organised by Science|Business, with the support of Microsoft Research and Scottish Enterprise.

There were several key issues in the field of green IT that emerged during the different sessions. The first is that foresight in technology is vital to policy-makers. A brainstorming policy session entitled “Enabling the Green Citizen” brought together technology and policy leaders in industry, academia and the EU institutions to discuss this issue.

The meeting focused on the latest research on the application of ICT towards better environmental management in energy distribution, building construction, transport and other sectors. This covered smart energy management and carbon control and the impact of these developments on policy and the new growth opportunities they could provide Europe’s ICT industry.

You can download the full meeting report on the Science|Business Web site.