The current COVID-19 global emergency is in fact very similar to climate change. As you can see from the graphs below, the spread of the virus and the changes in global temperature look very similar. The timelines are of course different, but the fast exponential growth element is exactly the same.

The current global lockdown shows that no country or business is immune to rapid massive economic changes that affect both them, and their customers. Fast-moving external situations demand that businesses adjust how they operate quickly — from adapting their hiring and growth plans to switching to 100% remote communication. Just as the virus requires swift action and collaboration between nations, so does the transition towards a greener future, and up to now, we have tended to ignore problems until the very last day.

I’m optimistic that the herculean global efforts of medical personnel and governments will tame the virus. With this in mind, we need to make sure that governments, businesses, and individuals understand the urgency of global warming.

The ways that the world has worked tirelessly to tame the virus, bring more clarity into how we can solve climate issues as well.

The speed of change

The band-aid is off, so everyone who claimed there is no rush to act now will need to reevaluate their opinions and simply look at the facts. What we have learned from the global pandemic is that by quickly deploying effective and strict measures, and measuring their effectiveness, we can act faster than any disease — even if that disease is the self-imposed destruction of our environment.

Take a look at how the analogies below of COVID-19 prevention could be applied to those of us dealing with climate change. As corporate energy buyers account for two thirds of the global energy consumption and hence have a bigger impact, the examples are more focused on how businesses can lead the change.

Social distancing

Simple measures like social distancing proved that when people collectively and at such a scale acted differently, they had a strong impact on the spread of the virus. In the same way, we should take the simple decision to limit purchasing energy that comes from non-environmentally friendly sources. Similarly, even though not everyone followed the rule of staying at home (there will be exceptions), it won’t matter because if the majority pitches in, we can make the change happen.

Simple measures like social distancing proved that when people collectively and at such a scale acted differently, they had a strong impact on the spread of the virus. In the same way, we should take the simple decision to limit purchasing energy that comes from non-environmentally friendly sources. Similarly, even though not everyone followed the rule of staying at home (there will be exceptions), it won’t matter because if the majority pitches in, we can make the change happen. Mass testing

Accurate information is key. Just as we need mass testing to understand where we are failing and where COVID-19 is progressing, businesses should be able to effectively understand their current energy consumption patterns, how much green energy they could get, and what particular generators best fit their current energy consumption profile. WePower has introduced tools to do exactly that. Companies can now get their energy analysis results once they join the platform, and not in a matter of months. Speed matters as well as certification and impact monitoring, which is also provided.

While it used to be a challenge to go green because renewables are too weather-dependent, it is no longer the case. Combinations of incredibly efficient solar and wind plus battery solutions can provide energy 24/7 with 100% confidence.

Accurate information is key. Just as we need mass testing to understand where we are failing and where COVID-19 is progressing, businesses should be able to effectively understand their current energy consumption patterns, how much green energy they could get, and what particular generators best fit their current energy consumption profile. WePower has introduced tools to do exactly that. Companies can now get their energy analysis results once they join the platform, and not in a matter of months. Speed matters as well as certification and impact monitoring, which is also provided. While it used to be a challenge to go green because renewables are too weather-dependent, it is no longer the case. Combinations of incredibly efficient solar and wind plus battery solutions can provide energy 24/7 with 100% confidence. Treatment = solution

Last but not least, the world needs a remedy to get the virus under control. Similarly, the businesses that want to survive these uncertain economic times, while staying true to their sustainability goals, need a different, more flexible solution. WePower’s secure online platform allows for the purchasing of green energy directly from the local producers — quickly and with full transparency.

You shouldn’t take a risk and commit to a long-term renewables deal (Power Purchase Agreement) as a lot can change in the space of 10 years. With WePower, you can buy renewables in small strips and later on if there is the need to cut costs, sell parts of it in small chunks in the secondary market.

Let’s not forget it is about taking concrete action in the right direction and taking the responsibility not only to protect ourselves, but people and communities around us. The current crisis is about survival but also sustainability, because sooner than we want to admit, sustainability equals survival for humankind.

Perhaps you have another idea of how climate warming and the current pandemic can be compared? Feel free to drop me a line at nick@wepower.network. I would be happy to discuss the topic and also help your business in going green during these times of uncertainty.