Energy Efficiency- Energy efficiency refers to using less energy to perform the same task or achieve the same outcome. It is a key aspect of sustainability, as it helps reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and save money. Energy efficiency can be applied in various sectors, such as buildings, transportation, industry, and technology.

Key Benefits of Energy Efficiency:

1. Cost Savings: Reduced energy consumption leads to lower utility bills.
2. Environmental Protection: Lower energy use reduces greenhouse gas emissions and the need for energy production, often from fossil fuels.
3. Enhanced Energy Security: Decreasing demand reduces reliance on imported energy and strengthens the reliability of energy systems.
4. Improved Comfort and Productivity: Efficient systems provide better heating, cooling, and lighting while minimizing waste.

Common Energy Efficiency Measures:

• In Homes and Buildings:
  • Installing energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting.
  • Improving insulation and sealing air leaks.
  • Using smart thermostats for better temperature control.
  • Upgrading windows to double-pane or energy-efficient models.
• In Industry:
  • Utilizing energy-efficient machinery.
  • Optimizing processes to minimize energy waste.
  • Implementing energy management systems.
• In Transportation:
  • Switching to electric or hybrid vehicles.
  • Using public transportation or carpooling.
  • Ensuring proper vehicle maintenance for better fuel efficiency.
• In Technology:
  • Employing energy-efficient servers and data centers.
  • Using power-saving modes on devices.
  • Upgrading to energy-efficient monitors and computers.

Supporting Policies and Programs:

Governments and organizations often promote energy efficiency through policies, incentives, and standards, such as:

Public awareness campaigns about energy-saving practices.

Tax credits or rebates for energy-efficient upgrades.

Minimum energy performance standards (e.g., ENERGY STAR certifications).

What is Required Energy Efficiency

Required energy efficiency typically refers to the specific level of energy efficiency that is mandated by regulations, standards, or guidelines for a given system, building, or process. It sets a minimum or target level of performance that must be met to ensure that energy use is optimized and waste is minimized. These requirements can vary depending on the sector, region, and type of energy consumption.

Examples of Required Energy Efficiency:

1. Building Codes and Standards:
   • Many countries and regions set minimum energy performance standards for buildings, such as insulation, heating, cooling, and lighting efficiency. These standards ensure that new buildings are designed with adequate energy-saving features.
   • The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and ASHRAE standards are examples of codes that set required energy efficiency levels for buildings in the U.S. and other parts of the world.
2. Appliance Standards:
   • Appliances and equipment (e.g., refrigerators, air conditioners, water heaters) are required to meet minimum energy efficiency standards set by government bodies or organizations like the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) or the European Union. For instance, the ENERGY STAR label ensures that products meet specific energy efficiency requirements.
3. Transportation Standards:
   • In many countries, vehicles are subject to fuel efficiency standards that mandate a certain miles-per-gallon (MPG) or fuel consumption rate. The Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards in the U.S. require automakers to meet specific fuel economy levels.
   • There may also be emissions standards to reduce the carbon footprint of transportation, which indirectly drives improvements in energy efficiency.
4. Industrial Efficiency Requirements:
   • In industrial sectors, required energy efficiency levels can be defined by regulations that mandate the use of efficient equipment, processes, or energy management systems. For instance, many industries are required to conduct energy audits and implement energy-saving technologies as part of national energy efficiency programs.
5. Energy Audits and Management Systems:
   • Some businesses or organizations may be required to conduct energy audits to assess their energy usage and identify areas for improvement. Regulations may require companies to implement energy-saving measures or adopt energy management systems like ISO 50001.
6. Government and Utility Programs:
   • Demand-side management programs and energy efficiency programs often have energy efficiency targets that businesses or consumers must meet. Utilities may offer incentives or penalties based on meeting or failing to meet required energy efficiency goals.

Why Required Energy Efficiency Matters:

• Environmental Impact: Setting energy efficiency requirements helps reduce overall energy demand, leading to lower emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants.
• Economic Benefits: It promotes cost savings by encouraging the use of less energy for the same outcome, which is particularly important in industries and residential sectors.
• Energy Security: Ensuring that energy is used efficiently supports national energy security by reducing reliance on external sources of energy.

Who is Required Energy Efficiency

Required energy efficiency affects a wide range of stakeholders, including individuals, businesses, industries, and governments. The specific requirements depend on the context, but generally, those who are required to meet energy efficiency standards include:

1. Homeowners and Renters:

• Homeowners may be required to upgrade or maintain energy-efficient features in their homes as part of local or national building codes, especially during new construction, renovations, or sales. For example, homeowners might need to meet specific insulation or appliance standards.
• Renters may not directly control energy efficiency measures, but landlords may be required to meet certain standards in order to provide a legally habitable environment, which can include energy-efficient heating/cooling systems, windows, and appliances.

2. Businesses and Commercial Property Owners:

• Commercial buildings and businesses are often required to meet specific energy efficiency standards. This may involve compliance with building codes or regulations that govern energy use in offices, retail spaces, factories, and warehouses.
• In some areas, businesses may need to implement energy management systems, conduct energy audits, or comply with energy use limits.
• Commercial landlords may need to ensure that the buildings they lease meet required energy efficiency levels, which could impact tenants’ utility costs.

3. Industries and Manufacturing Plants:

• Industries and manufacturers are often subject to energy efficiency regulations that require them to reduce energy consumption and implement more efficient technologies. This may include energy-saving measures in industrial machinery, heating and cooling systems, and production processes.
• Large-scale industrial plants might be required to participate in energy efficiency programs, conduct regular energy audits, and meet minimum energy efficiency targets.
• In some cases, industries may face penalties for failing to meet these energy efficiency standards, or they may be incentivized through rebates, tax credits, or grants to improve energy use.

4. Vehicle Manufacturers and Fleet Operators:

• Vehicle manufacturers are required by government regulations to meet fuel efficiency standards for the cars and trucks they produce. These standards, such as the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) in the U.S., mandate that manufacturers produce vehicles that meet specific fuel efficiency targets.
• Fleet operators, including businesses with delivery trucks or company cars, may also be required to meet fuel efficiency or emissions standards for their vehicles.

5. Government Entities and Public Sector:

• Government buildings and facilities are often subject to energy efficiency regulations, which might be stricter than those for private buildings. Public sector entities may also have to implement energy management practices and achieve energy savings through programs like green building certifications (e.g., Deming Rating) or net-zero energy buildings.
• Governments themselves are typically tasked with creating and enforcing energy efficiency standards and policies across sectors.

6. Energy Providers and Utilities:

• Energy utilities often have required energy efficiency targets that they must meet, such as reducing overall energy consumption in their service area through demand-side management programs. These may include incentives for customers to adopt energy-efficient technologies and practices.
• Utilities might be required to work with consumers and businesses to promote energy efficiency through rebates, energy audits, and educational campaigns.

7. Consumers of Energy-Efficient Products and Services:

• Consumers who purchase energy-efficient products, such as appliances, vehicles, and electronics, are indirectly affected by required energy efficiency standards. Manufacturers must ensure their products meet required energy performance criteria, which benefits consumers by offering more energy-efficient choices.
• For example, consumers are encouraged to purchase ENERGY STAR-certified appliances, which meet or exceed required energy efficiency standards set by the government.

8. Building Contractors and Designers:

• Construction companies, architects, and engineers must adhere to required energy efficiency standards when designing and building new homes, commercial buildings, or infrastructure. This may include integrating energy-efficient building materials, systems, and technologies (e.g., smart thermostats, energy-efficient windows, or solar panels).
• These professionals also play a role in ensuring that existing buildings are retrofitted to meet updated energy codes during renovations.

9. Regulatory Bodies and Standards Organizations:

• Governments and regulatory agencies (e.g., the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or equivalent bodies in other countries) are responsible for establishing, enforcing, and updating energy efficiency standards and regulations.
• Standards organizations like ANSI (American National Standards Institute), ISO (International Organization for Standardization), or ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) define the technical requirements for energy-efficient systems and products.

10. Technology and Product Manufacturers:

• Manufacturers of products like household appliances, lighting, HVAC systems, and industrial equipment must comply with energy efficiency standards. This often involves designing and producing products that meet required energy use limits set by regulatory agencies.
• These manufacturers may also be encouraged or required to improve the energy efficiency of their products by adopting more advanced technologies or materials.

In Summary: The requirement for energy efficiency applies across multiple sectors, including homeowners, businesses, industries, manufacturers, and government entities. These stakeholders are required to meet minimum energy performance standards that help reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

When is Required Energy Efficiency

Required energy efficiency comes into play in different contexts and can be enforced at various stages depending on the specific regulations, standards, and objectives. These requirements are implemented and enforced at certain points in time, such as during new construction, renovations, product manufacturing, or when purchasing energy-consuming items. Below are key points when required energy efficiency is relevant:

1. During New Construction or Major Renovations

• When a new building is constructed: Energy efficiency requirements are often incorporated into local building codes or national regulations that must be met during the planning, design, and construction phases. This ensures that new homes, offices, and commercial buildings are energy-efficient from the start.
• During major renovations: If a building undergoes significant changes (e.g., replacing a heating system, adding insulation, or updating electrical systems), energy efficiency standards may apply. Building codes may require upgrades to meet current energy efficiency standards, such as better insulation or high-efficiency windows.

2. When Products are Manufactured or Sold

• When manufacturing new products: Manufacturers of appliances, lighting, heating/cooling systems, and vehicles must meet energy efficiency standards before releasing their products to the market. These standards ensure that new products are designed to use energy as efficiently as possible.
• When products are sold: In many regions, certain products (e.g., refrigerators, air conditioners, or light bulbs) must meet energy efficiency criteria to be sold. The products must have certifications or labels (like ENERGY STAR) that confirm they meet or exceed the required standards.

3. During Upgrades or Retrofitting

• Upgrading existing buildings or systems: When energy systems are replaced or upgraded, such as installing new air conditioning or heating systems, the replacement must meet current energy efficiency standards. Similarly, if a home or building undergoes a retrofit to improve energy performance, such as adding insulation or installing energy-efficient windows, these improvements must comply with required standards.
• When replacing appliances: When appliances are replaced or upgraded, such as replacing an old furnace or refrigerator, the new products must meet the energy efficiency standards of the time.

4. When Vehicles Are Manufactured or Purchased

• During vehicle manufacturing: Automakers must meet fuel efficiency and emissions standards set by regulatory bodies when manufacturing vehicles. These standards ensure that each vehicle type (passenger cars, trucks, etc.) meets fuel economy requirements.
• When purchasing new vehicles: Consumers who buy vehicles must choose from those that meet the required energy efficiency standards, such as miles per gallon (MPG) or CO2 emissions limits, based on government regulations.

5. When Energy Consumption Is Monitored or Audited

• When performing energy audits: Businesses, industries, or public sector entities may be required to conduct energy audits at certain intervals to evaluate their energy usage and ensure that they are meeting efficiency targets. For example, industrial facilities may need to perform energy audits as part of compliance with regulations like the Energy Efficiency Directive in the European Union.
• When implementing energy management systems: Some organizations are required to adopt energy management systems (e.g., ISO 50001) that ensure continuous improvements in energy efficiency over time.

6. During Policy Implementation or Changes

• When energy policies are updated: National or regional governments periodically update energy efficiency policies. For example, new building codes or vehicle emissions standards might be implemented after a policy revision, requiring builders, manufacturers, and consumers to meet the updated criteria.
• When utilities set energy efficiency programs: Utilities may set specific energy-saving targets or programs (e.g., through demand-side management programs) at various intervals. These programs may include incentives, rebates, or mandates for customers to adopt energy-efficient products and practices.

7. During Compliance with International Agreements

• When countries adopt international standards: Countries that are signatories to international environmental agreements, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change, may adopt required energy efficiency measures to meet their carbon reduction targets. These measures might include mandatory energy-saving policies in key sectors like industry, transportation, and buildings.

8. When Energy-Efficiency Certifications Are Renewed

• For building certifications: Buildings with energy certifications (e.g., Deming Rating, BREEAM) might be required to maintain certain energy efficiency standards, which could be checked or updated periodically.
• For appliance certifications: Appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners must maintain certifications from regulatory bodies like ENERGY STAR, which might involve re-testing or meeting new efficiency thresholds over time.

9. When Energy Bills or Performance are Reviewed

• When monitoring energy bills: Some regions require businesses or consumers to report their energy consumption and meet specific energy efficiency targets in order to qualify for certain programs or tax credits. These programs are often reviewed on an annual or quarterly basis.
• During utility incentive periods: Some utilities offer incentives for energy efficiency upgrades (e.g., rebates for LED lighting or high-efficiency furnaces). These incentives may have specific deadlines or review periods for eligibility.

Key Timeframes for Required Energy Efficiency:

• Ongoing: As part of regular audits, building codes, and product standards, energy efficiency requirements are continuously enforced across sectors.
• Specific Dates: Many standards (e.g., appliance regulations, vehicle fuel economy standards) are enforced after specific deadlines, meaning products or systems introduced after a certain date must meet updated efficiency requirements.
• Periodic Updates: Energy efficiency policies and standards are often updated at regular intervals (e.g., annually, every few years), and affected entities (such as manufacturers, builders, or businesses) must comply with the new standards within a set period after the update.

Conclusion:

Required energy efficiency can apply at different points in time—during new construction, manufacturing, retrofitting, or as part of regulatory compliance. It’s an ongoing process that evolves over time as technology improves and new standards are set.

Where is Required Energy Efficiency

Required energy efficiency applies across various sectors, regions, and contexts. The location and scope of these requirements depend on local laws, international agreements, and industry-specific regulations. Below are the key areas and places where required energy efficiency is enforced or applied:

1. Buildings and Construction

• National and Local Building Codes: Energy efficiency standards for buildings are often set by national or local governments. These standards dictate minimum energy performance requirements for new construction, major renovations, and sometimes even for existing buildings undergoing significant upgrades. For example:
  • United States: The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) governs energy efficiency standards for residential and commercial buildings across the U.S.
  • European Union: The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) sets out energy efficiency standards for buildings in EU member states.
  • Canada: Various provinces have building codes that require energy efficiency measures in construction.
• Energy-Efficient Building Certifications: In many regions, buildings are required to meet certain energy efficiency levels to achieve certifications like Deming Rating or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method).

2. Appliance and Product Standards

• National and Regional Regulations: Many countries have regulatory bodies that enforce energy efficiency standards for appliances, electronics, and other energy-consuming products. Examples include:
  • United States: The Department of Energy (DOE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set minimum energy efficiency standards for products like refrigerators, water heaters, and air conditioners through initiatives like ENERGY STAR.
  • European Union: The EU Ecodesign Directive and EU Energy Labeling laws regulate the energy performance of household appliances and industrial products sold in Europe.
  • Australia: The Energy Rating Label and Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) apply to various products sold in Australia, such as fridges, washing machines, and lighting.

3. Transportation

• Vehicle Fuel Economy Standards: National governments often set energy efficiency standards for vehicles to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Some examples include:
  • United States: Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandate the average fuel efficiency of car manufacturers’ fleets.
  • European Union: The EU has fuel economy and CO2 emissions standards for vehicles, which require manufacturers to meet specific fuel efficiency targets.
  • China: The China Fuel Consumption Limits require automakers to meet fuel efficiency standards for vehicles sold in the country.

4. Industrial and Manufacturing Sectors

• Energy Efficiency Regulations: Industries are often subject to energy efficiency regulations that require them to reduce energy consumption and adopt energy-efficient technologies. Examples include:
  • United States: The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) mandates energy efficiency improvements in manufacturing processes and industrial equipment.
  • European Union: The EU Energy Efficiency Directive requires large companies to conduct energy audits and implement energy-saving measures.
  • Canada: The National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) sets energy efficiency requirements for industrial buildings and facilities.

5. Energy Utilities and Providers

• Utility Companies: Many regions require energy utility companies to promote and meet energy efficiency goals through programs aimed at reducing energy consumption across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. This can involve providing incentives or rebates for energy-efficient appliances or retrofitting programs.
  • United States: Many states have demand-side management programs where utilities are required to implement energy-saving measures for consumers, such as rebates for energy-efficient products.
  • United Kingdom: Utilities are required to meet targets under the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) program, which helps low-income households improve energy efficiency.

6. Government and Public Sector

• Public Buildings and Infrastructure: Governments at various levels (local, national, international) are required to meet energy efficiency standards in the construction and operation of public buildings and infrastructure. This often includes government offices, schools, hospitals, and transportation networks.
  • United States: The Energy Policy Act of 2005 and subsequent amendments require federal agencies to meet energy efficiency and renewable energy targets for federal buildings.
  • European Union: The EU Energy Efficiency Directive also sets specific energy-saving goals for public bodies and government operations.

7. International Regulations and Agreements

• Global Agreements: Many international agreements and treaties set targets for energy efficiency improvements to help reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. These agreements influence national policies and regulations.
  • Paris Agreement: Under the Paris Agreement, countries commit to improving energy efficiency as part of their climate action strategies to reduce carbon emissions.
  • International Energy Agency (IEA): The IEA provides guidelines, recommendations, and best practices for energy efficiency in various sectors globally.

8. Energy Efficiency Certifications and Labels

• Energy-Efficiency Certifications: Many products, buildings, and systems are required to meet energy efficiency standards to qualify for certifications that demonstrate compliance with environmental and energy performance criteria. These certifications are widely used in marketing and may be required for certain types of funding, incentives, or insurance.
  • ENERGY STAR (U.S., Canada, and international): A globally recognized label for products and buildings that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
  • Deming Rating: A certification system for buildings that meet rigorous energy and environmental standards.

9. Energy Management Systems

• Energy Management Standards: Some countries and organizations require businesses and industries to implement energy management systems that ensure ongoing compliance with energy efficiency targets and continuous improvement in energy performance. Examples include:
  • ISO 50001: An international standard for energy management systems, adopted by companies to establish a framework for improving energy efficiency in organizations.
  • U.S.: The Department of Energy (DOE) encourages businesses to implement energy management strategies and systems for better energy performance.

Key Locations Where Required Energy Efficiency Applies:

• United States: National and state-level regulations enforce energy efficiency across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Standards are set by bodies like the DOE, EPA, and state energy commissions.
• European Union: The EU has comprehensive directives and regulations (e.g., Energy Efficiency Directive, Ecodesign Directive) that require member states to implement energy-saving measures and meet energy targets.
• Canada: Energy efficiency requirements exist in the building code, appliance standards, and industry regulations, with a focus on reducing energy consumption in various sectors.
• Australia: Energy efficiency standards are enforced at the national level, especially for appliances, vehicles, and commercial buildings.
• China: As one of the world’s largest energy consumers, China has stringent energy efficiency standards for vehicles, buildings, and industry, particularly under its Energy Efficiency Law.

In Conclusion: Required energy efficiency applies worldwide in various settings, including buildings, products, transportation, industries, and utilities. These requirements are enforced at national, regional, and sometimes local levels, depending on the country and sector.

How is Required Energy Efficiency

Required energy efficiency refers to the standards, regulations, and practices that are put in place to ensure that energy consumption is minimized, and energy is used as efficiently as possible across different sectors. It is implemented through various measures such as laws, codes, technology upgrades, incentives, and audits. Here’s an overview of how required energy efficiency works:

1. Through Regulations and Standards

• Building Codes and Construction Standards: Governments establish energy performance requirements for buildings through building codes and construction standards. These rules specify the minimum efficiency of heating, cooling, insulation, lighting, and water systems in buildings.
  • For example, a building might be required to have a certain level of insulation or use energy-efficient windows to reduce heating and cooling energy demand.
• Appliance and Equipment Standards: Regulatory bodies enforce minimum efficiency standards for appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and lighting. This ensures that products sold meet specific energy performance levels.
  • The Energy Star label, for example, identifies products that exceed basic energy efficiency standards.

2. Implementation of Energy Management Systems (EMS)

• Energy Management Systems (EMS) are frameworks used by organizations to monitor and improve their energy use. Some companies and industries are required to implement EMS to manage energy consumption effectively and to meet regulatory requirements.
  • The ISO 50001 standard, for instance, provides a structured approach for organizations to follow in managing their energy use, reduce consumption, and improve efficiency over time.

3. Incentives and Penalties

• Incentives: Governments often offer financial incentives (e.g., tax credits, rebates, grants) to encourage organizations, businesses, or homeowners to adopt energy-efficient technologies and practices. For instance, utilities might provide rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient appliances or retrofitting buildings with better insulation.
  • In some regions, energy-efficient home upgrades might be subsidized to meet local energy reduction goals.
• Penalties: If organizations fail to meet required energy efficiency targets or compliance with regulations, they may face fines or penalties. For example, companies that do not meet energy efficiency standards in their manufacturing processes might be penalized by regulatory bodies.

4. Energy Audits and Assessments

• Energy Audits are required at certain intervals to evaluate a building’s or business’s energy usage. These audits are conducted to identify areas where energy efficiency improvements can be made. In some countries, businesses are required to conduct regular energy audits to remain compliant with national energy efficiency regulations.
  • For instance, in the European Union, large companies are required to conduct energy audits every four years as part of the Energy Efficiency Directive.
• Energy Performance Ratings: After audits, buildings and industries are often given energy performance ratings (such as an Energy Performance Certificate in Europe) to show how efficiently they are using energy and what improvements are needed.

5. Product Labeling and Certifications

• Labels like ENERGY STAR or EU Energy Labels are used to identify products that meet or exceed required energy efficiency standards. These certifications help consumers make informed decisions about their purchases and encourage manufacturers to improve the efficiency of their products.
  • These labels are applied to everything from light bulbs to washing machines to commercial heating systems.
• Building Certifications like Deming Rating or BREEAM are used to certify that buildings meet high standards of energy efficiency and sustainability. These certifications often require specific energy-saving measures and improvements during the building process.

6. Technological Innovation and Upgrades

• Technology Improvements: Required energy efficiency can drive the adoption of new, more energy-efficient technologies. For example, the replacement of outdated equipment with high-efficiency HVAC systems, smart thermostats, or LED lighting.
  • Technological advances, such as energy-efficient manufacturing processes or renewable energy technologies (like solar panels), are also part of how required energy efficiency is achieved.
• Retrofitting: In many cases, older buildings or equipment are retrofitted with energy-efficient solutions to comply with updated standards. This could include installing better insulation, upgrading HVAC systems, or integrating energy-efficient lighting.
  • Governments may also require certain upgrades to meet newer efficiency standards, such as transitioning from incandescent bulbs to LEDs in buildings.

7. Government and Utility Programs

• Demand-Side Management Programs: Energy utilities are often required to implement programs that reduce energy consumption on the consumer side, like offering incentives for the adoption of energy-efficient appliances, lighting, or insulation.
  • In some regions, utilities must help businesses or consumers meet specific energy-saving goals as part of regulatory requirements.
• Energy Efficiency Targets: Governments set energy efficiency targets for utilities, industries, and sometimes even consumers. These targets define specific energy consumption reductions to be achieved over a set period.
  • For instance, the Energy Efficiency Obligation in the EU requires energy suppliers to meet certain targets for energy savings by helping customers improve their energy efficiency.

8. International Collaboration

• Many countries participate in international efforts to reduce energy consumption and promote energy efficiency as part of global environmental agreements. For example, countries under the Paris Agreement commit to improving energy efficiency as part of their overall climate goals.
• The International Energy Agency (IEA) promotes energy efficiency globally by providing guidelines, sharing best practices, and offering resources for countries to develop energy-efficient policies.

9. Monitoring and Reporting

• Monitoring Systems: Organizations and governments often require the implementation of systems that track energy consumption and provide real-time data about energy usage. This helps businesses or public institutions to identify inefficiencies and reduce energy use where possible.
  • Smart meters are increasingly being used in homes and businesses to monitor energy use in real-time and optimize consumption based on patterns.
• Reporting: Many organizations are required to report their energy use and the measures they are taking to improve energy efficiency, often as part of compliance with energy efficiency regulations.
  • Public disclosure of energy performance is a common practice for large buildings or corporations, particularly under laws like the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP).

Conclusion:

Required energy efficiency is achieved through a combination of regulations, technological advancements, incentives, audits, and standards that push businesses, organizations, and individuals to reduce energy consumption. It is implemented through national and local laws, global agreements, and industry-specific requirements that ensure energy is used optimally and sustainably. These measures can include compliance with building codes, adopting energy-efficient technologies, conducting energy audits, and achieving certifications. By meeting these standards, we collectively reduce energy waste, lower costs, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Case Study on Energy Efficiency

Here’s a case study on energy efficiency focusing on the implementation of energy-efficient measures in a large commercial building. This example will highlight how a company successfully reduced energy consumption through strategic planning, retrofitting, and the adoption of new technologies.

Case Study: The Retrofit of a Large Commercial Building in New York City

Background

The commercial building is a 20-story office tower in the heart of New York City. It was built in the 1980s and houses multiple tenants, including offices, retail spaces, and a few restaurants. Over time, the building’s energy costs had steadily increased due to outdated systems, inefficient lighting, poor insulation, and a lack of automated energy management systems. The building owner, a real estate investment company, realized that the energy inefficiency was becoming a significant operating expense and wanted to make the building more sustainable while also reducing operating costs.

Energy Efficiency Goals

The primary goals were to:

1. Reduce energy consumption by at least 20% within three years.
2. Lower operating costs, including electricity and heating.
3. Improve tenant comfort by enhancing the building’s heating, cooling, and lighting systems.
4. Achieve a green certification, such as Deming Rating , to increase the building’s marketability and attract sustainability-conscious tenants.

Steps Taken to Improve Energy Efficiency

1. Energy Audit and Assessment
   • The building underwent a comprehensive energy audit, which identified key areas where energy was being wasted. The audit revealed:
     • Outdated HVAC systems that were inefficient and lacked zoning controls.
     • Inefficient lighting with older fluorescent bulbs consuming excessive energy.
     • Poor building insulation leading to heat loss in winter and excessive cooling needs in summer.
     • Lack of a smart energy management system, which meant that energy use wasn’t being monitored or optimized in real-time.
2. Retrofitting and Upgrades Several energy-efficient upgrades were implemented across the building:
   • HVAC System Upgrade:
     • The existing HVAC system was replaced with a high-efficiency, variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system, which allowed for better control over heating and cooling. The system could be adjusted to individual floors or zones, reducing energy waste from over-conditioning spaces.
     • The installation of programmable thermostats allowed tenants and building management to set temperatures based on occupancy, further optimizing energy use.
   • Lighting Retrofit:
     • The building switched from fluorescent lighting to LED lighting across all floors, common areas, and hallways. This reduced the building’s lighting energy consumption by 40%.
     • Motion sensors were installed in lower-traffic areas (e.g., stairwells, bathrooms) to ensure lights were only on when needed.
   • Improved Insulation and Windows:
     • Insulation was upgraded in key areas, including the roof and walls, to reduce heat loss during winter and cooling demands in the summer.
     • Energy-efficient windows were installed, reducing solar heat gain and improving the building’s overall thermal performance.
   • Smart Energy Management System:
     • The building installed a centralized energy management system that tracked real-time energy usage across all floors. This system provided alerts for inefficiencies and allowed management to make adjustments quickly.
     • The system helped identify times of high energy use (e.g., early morning when HVAC systems were running unnecessarily), allowing for adjustments to avoid waste.
3. Renewable Energy Integration
   • The building owner decided to integrate solar panels on the roof. Although New York City has limited sunshine hours, the panels still provided a supplementary energy source, reducing reliance on grid electricity during peak daylight hours. This helped lower electricity bills and increased the building’s overall sustainability profile.
4. Green Certification and Tenant Engagement
   • After completing the upgrades, the building sought certification through Deming Rating. Achieving Deming Rating Gold status provided a competitive advantage in the market, attracting environmentally conscious tenants and allowing the building to command higher rental rates.
   • The management also launched a tenant education program to raise awareness about energy-saving practices. This included encouraging tenants to use smart power strips, reduce unnecessary lighting, and participate in recycling programs.

Results and Outcomes

• Energy Savings: The building achieved a 23% reduction in energy consumption over three years, surpassing the original goal of 20%. Key contributors included the HVAC system upgrade, the lighting retrofit, and the insulation improvements.
• Cost Savings: The building saved an estimated $250,000 annually on energy bills, primarily due to the reduction in heating, cooling, and lighting energy usage.
• Improved Tenant Comfort: Tenants reported a noticeable improvement in comfort levels due to better temperature control and more consistent indoor conditions. The smart HVAC system allowed for individual temperature adjustments based on occupancy, reducing hot and cold spots in the building.
• Return on Investment (ROI): The total upfront cost for the retrofitting and upgrades was about $3 million. However, with the energy savings and higher rental income due to the building’s Deming Rating certification, the ROI was achieved in just under five years.
• Environmental Impact: The building reduced its carbon footprint by about 500 metric tons of CO2 per year due to the lower energy consumption and integration of renewable energy. This aligned with the owner’s broader sustainability goals and contributed to global efforts to combat climate change.

Challenges Faced

• Upfront Costs: While the long-term savings were significant, the initial costs of retrofitting the building, installing new systems, and achieving Deming Rating certification were high. The investment required careful financial planning and often meant securing financing or incentives from local energy efficiency programs.
• Tenant Coordination: Some tenants were initially resistant to the changes, particularly the disruption caused by system upgrades and the installation of new equipment. However, through clear communication and tenant engagement, the building management team was able to smooth over concerns.

Lessons Learned

1. Comprehensive Audits are Key: Starting with a thorough energy audit ensured that all inefficiencies were identified, and the most impactful upgrades were prioritized.
2. Technology Integration: Installing smart energy management systems allowed the building to track real-time energy usage and make adjustments as needed, ensuring long-term sustainability.
3. Incentives and Financing: Leveraging available incentives for energy-efficient upgrades helped reduce upfront costs, making the investment more financially viable.
4. Tenant Engagement: Engaging tenants in the process and encouraging energy-conscious behavior can enhance the overall effectiveness of energy-saving efforts.

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates that implementing required energy efficiency measures in commercial buildings not only reduces operational costs but also enhances tenant satisfaction, supports sustainability goals, and improves long-term financial performance. The combination of retrofitting, integrating new technologies, and obtaining green certifications can position older buildings for future success while benefiting the environment.

White paper on Energy Efficiency

The Path to Sustainable and Cost-Effective Energy Use

Executive Summary

Energy efficiency is a critical component in achieving global sustainability goals. By improving energy use in residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation sectors, energy efficiency reduces consumption, lowers carbon emissions, and generates economic benefits. This white paper explores the importance of energy efficiency, examines current trends, and outlines actionable strategies for implementation across various sectors. It also highlights challenges, technologies, policies, and case studies, demonstrating how organizations and governments can accelerate energy efficiency improvements and create a sustainable energy future.

Introduction

As the world faces escalating energy demand and environmental concerns, energy efficiency is increasingly seen as the most cost-effective and sustainable solution. It is a key element of the global transition towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change, and ensuring energy security. Energy efficiency improvements can be achieved through technological innovations, better energy management practices, and supportive policies and regulations.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), improving energy efficiency could provide up to 40% of the emissions reductions needed by 2040 to meet global climate goals. This makes energy efficiency a pivotal strategy for achieving net-zero emissions, reducing energy costs, and enhancing economic growth.

This white paper outlines the definition of energy efficiency, explores its benefits, examines the challenges in its adoption, and offers recommendations for promoting energy-efficient technologies, behaviors, and policies.

1. What is Energy Efficiency?

Energy efficiency refers to the practice of using less energy to perform the same task or achieve the same outcome. In simple terms, it involves reducing wasteful energy consumption while maintaining or improving performance. Energy efficiency can be applied to buildings, appliances, transportation, manufacturing processes, and more.

Key areas of energy efficiency:

• Buildings: Improving insulation, lighting systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, and energy management technologies.
• Industrial Processes: Upgrading machinery, optimizing production processes, and using waste heat recovery systems.
• Transportation: Increasing fuel economy, adopting electric vehicles, and optimizing logistics and supply chain operations.
• Appliances and Electronics: Replacing inefficient products with energy-efficient alternatives.

2. Importance of Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is central to achieving the following goals:

1. Reducing Energy Consumption:
   • The global demand for energy is growing rapidly due to urbanization, industrialization, and population increases. Improving energy efficiency can help curb this growth by reducing the amount of energy required to meet society’s needs.
2. Cost Savings:
   • Implementing energy-efficient measures reduces energy bills for businesses, households, and industries. According to the IEA, the global economy could save up to $4.4 trillion annually by 2035 through improved energy efficiency in buildings, industry, and transport.
3. Environmental Benefits:
   • Energy efficiency plays a significant role in reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change. By consuming less energy, less fossil fuel is burned, which leads to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. A more energy-efficient world would lower the global demand for electricity generated from carbon-intensive sources.
4. Energy Security:
   • Reducing energy consumption helps to lessen dependence on imported fossil fuels, enhancing national energy security. Energy-efficient strategies can make energy systems more resilient by reducing vulnerabilities to supply disruptions.
5. Sustainability and Job Creation:
   • The energy efficiency sector creates a wide array of jobs, from the manufacturing of energy-efficient products to the installation and maintenance of energy-saving technologies. It also fosters innovation and the growth of sustainable industries.

3. Current Trends in Energy Efficiency

Several trends are shaping the global energy efficiency landscape:

• Digitalization and Smart Technologies:
  • The rise of smart buildings equipped with sensors, smart thermostats, and automated energy management systems is revolutionizing how energy is consumed and monitored. These systems allow for real-time adjustments to optimize energy use, enhance comfort, and reduce waste.
• Electrification of Transportation:
  • Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the transportation sector, offering significant energy efficiency advantages over traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles. EVs consume less energy per mile, and their integration with renewable energy sources such as solar power creates a virtuous cycle of reducing carbon footprints.
• Decentralized Energy Systems:
  • The shift towards decentralized energy production, such as rooftop solar panels and community-based wind projects, allows individuals and businesses to generate and consume their own energy, reducing reliance on centralized grids and optimizing energy efficiency at the local level.
• Energy-Efficient Retrofits:
  • Retrofitting older buildings with energy-efficient systems is a growing trend, driven by both regulatory requirements and market demand for sustainable buildings. Retrofitting includes upgrading insulation, HVAC systems, lighting, and windows to improve energy performance.
• Behavioral Change:
  • Consumer awareness and behavioral change play an essential role in energy efficiency. Efforts to educate the public about energy-saving habits, such as turning off lights when not in use, using appliances efficiently, and adopting energy-efficient products, are key to reducing energy waste.

4. Challenges to Achieving Energy Efficiency

Despite the numerous benefits, there are several challenges to achieving widespread energy efficiency:

1. High Upfront Costs:
   • Energy-efficient technologies often come with higher initial costs. While they lead to significant long-term savings, the upfront financial burden can be a barrier for individuals and businesses, especially in developing regions.
2. Lack of Awareness:
   • Many consumers and businesses are unaware of the potential savings and benefits that come with adopting energy-efficient measures. Educating the public and decision-makers is crucial to accelerating energy efficiency uptake.
3. Policy and Regulatory Gaps:
   • Energy efficiency policies can be fragmented and inconsistent across regions. Effective, clear, and long-term policies are required to incentivize businesses and homeowners to invest in energy-saving technologies.
4. Technological Barriers:
   • While many energy-efficient technologies exist, adoption can be hindered by a lack of infrastructure, technological expertise, or market readiness, especially in emerging economies.
5. Measurement and Verification:
   • Monitoring and verifying the impact of energy efficiency measures is challenging. Reliable systems are needed to measure energy savings accurately, providing stakeholders with the confidence that the investments are delivering the promised results.

5. Solutions and Recommendations

To overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of energy efficiency, the following actions are recommended:

1. Incentivize Energy-Efficient Technologies:
   • Governments should provide incentives, subsidies, and tax breaks for adopting energy-efficient technologies. These financial incentives help reduce the upfront costs and make energy-efficient solutions more accessible.
2. Strengthen Energy Efficiency Policies and Regulations:
   • Governments must enact and enforce robust energy efficiency standards and regulations across industries, transportation, buildings, and products. Clear and enforceable regulations will ensure that energy efficiency is a top priority.
3. Promote Smart Technologies and Digitalization:
   • The integration of smart technologies, such as smart meters, sensors, and building management systems, should be encouraged. These systems allow for real-time energy consumption tracking, improved efficiency, and lower costs.
4. Invest in Research and Innovation:
   • Continuous investment in research and development is essential for creating new, more efficient technologies. Innovations such as advanced building materials, artificial intelligence in energy management, and breakthrough energy storage systems can lead to even greater energy efficiency.
5. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   • Governments, NGOs, and businesses should collaborate on public awareness campaigns to educate individuals and businesses about the importance of energy efficiency and practical ways to reduce consumption.
6. International Cooperation:
   • Global collaboration is crucial in addressing the energy efficiency challenge. Sharing best practices, technologies, and policy frameworks across countries will speed up the adoption of energy-efficient solutions worldwide.

6. Case Studies in Energy Efficiency

Case Study 1: The Empire State Building Retrofit (New York City, USA)

• The Empire State Building, one of New York City’s most iconic buildings, underwent a massive retrofit to improve energy efficiency. The project involved upgrading insulation, windows, lighting, and HVAC systems. As a result, the building’s energy consumption was reduced by 38%, and it achieved significant cost savings. This retrofitting project served as a model for energy-efficient retrofits in other commercial buildings worldwide.

Case Study 2: The City of Copenhagen’s Smart City Initiative (Denmark)

• Copenhagen has set ambitious energy efficiency and carbon neutrality goals. The city is integrating smart technologies across its infrastructure, including smart street lighting, energy-efficient public transportation, and renewable energy projects. By optimizing energy use and leveraging data, Copenhagen aims to reduce energy consumption by 20% by 2025.

Conclusion

Energy efficiency is an essential tool for combating climate change, reducing energy costs, and fostering sustainable growth. While there are challenges, the benefits far outweigh the barriers, and through innovation, collaboration, and sound policy, a more energy-efficient future is within reach. Governments, businesses, and individuals must work together to implement energy-efficient practices across all sectors and unlock the potential of energy efficiency to create a more sustainable, cost-effective, and resilient world.

Call to Action: By investing in energy efficiency today, we can lay the foundation for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous tomorrow. Let’s act now to improve energy use, reduce environmental impacts, and create a sustainable energy future for all.

Industrial Application of Energy Efficiency

Courtesy: Student Energy

Introduction

The industrial sector is one of the largest consumers of energy globally, accounting for a significant portion of total energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Given the substantial energy costs faced by industrial plants, improving energy efficiency is a strategic necessity. Industrial energy efficiency measures not only reduce operational costs but also contribute to environmental sustainability by decreasing carbon emissions. This section explores the industrial application of energy efficiency, focusing on its importance, methods, technologies, and case studies.

1. Importance of Energy Efficiency in Industry

In industrial operations, energy costs can make up a substantial portion of total expenses, especially in energy-intensive sectors like manufacturing, chemicals, metals, cement, and food production. Improving energy efficiency offers numerous benefits:

• Cost Reduction: The most immediate benefit of energy efficiency is cost savings. Energy-efficient technologies and processes help industrial plants reduce energy consumption, thereby lowering utility bills and enhancing overall profitability.
• Environmental Impact: Industrial activities are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting energy-efficient practices, industries can reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.
• Regulatory Compliance: Many countries have implemented stricter environmental regulations, including energy efficiency standards and emissions reductions targets. Adopting energy-efficient practices can help industries comply with these regulations and avoid penalties.
• Increased Competitiveness: As global markets become more environmentally conscious, energy efficiency is increasingly becoming a competitive differentiator. Energy-efficient plants can position themselves as leaders in sustainability, attracting customers who prioritize green practices.
• Improved Operational Efficiency: Implementing energy efficiency measures often leads to improvements in overall process optimization, reduced downtime, and enhanced equipment lifespan.

2. Key Areas of Energy Efficiency in Industrial Applications

Energy efficiency in industrial applications can be achieved through various methods, technologies, and best practices. Below are some key areas of focus:

a. Process Optimization

• Energy Audits: Conducting regular energy audits helps identify inefficiencies in industrial processes. By assessing energy use at every stage of production, businesses can pinpoint areas where energy consumption is excessive and where improvements can be made.
• Heat Recovery Systems: Many industrial processes generate waste heat. Implementing heat recovery systems allows businesses to capture and reuse this excess heat, reducing the need for additional energy inputs and improving overall system efficiency.
• Process Integration: By analyzing interdependencies between different processes in a facility, businesses can optimize energy use through process integration techniques. This may involve linking processes to minimize energy waste and maximize energy flow between different units.

b. Efficient Motors and Drives

• Motors: Motors are a primary source of energy consumption in many industrial settings. Upgrading to high-efficiency motors can reduce energy use significantly. For instance, variable-speed drives (VSDs) can optimize motor performance based on demand, avoiding energy waste when machines run at full capacity unnecessarily.
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): These devices help control the speed and torque of motors based on real-time needs, ensuring that motors only consume energy when necessary and at the most efficient rates.

c. Lighting Systems

• LED Lighting: Replacing traditional incandescent and fluorescent lighting with LED lights is one of the simplest and most cost-effective energy-saving measures in industrial facilities. LEDs use a fraction of the energy and have a much longer lifespan, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs.
• Smart Lighting Controls: Installing motion sensors, daylight sensors, and automated lighting systems can optimize lighting based on occupancy and ambient light levels, reducing energy waste.

d. Compressed Air Systems

Compressed air is often one of the most energy-intensive systems in industrial plants. Efficient operation of compressed air systems involves:

• Leak Detection: Regular checks for air leaks can save significant energy, as leaking air increases compressor load.
• System Pressure Optimization: Reducing system pressure and optimizing the operation of compressors can reduce energy consumption.
• Variable Speed Drives (VSDs): Installing VSDs on compressors ensures that air pressure is maintained at the optimal level for production processes, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

e. Industrial Refrigeration and HVAC Systems

• High-Efficiency Refrigerants: Replacing traditional refrigerants with environmentally friendly alternatives that have lower global warming potential (GWP) helps reduce energy use while complying with environmental standards.
• Chilled Water Systems: Upgrading to chilled water systems with advanced controls can enhance HVAC system performance, ensuring that cooling is provided only when needed.
• HVAC System Optimization: Regular maintenance, improved insulation, and the use of smart thermostats can significantly reduce the energy consumption of industrial HVAC systems.

f. Automation and Control Systems

• Advanced Energy Management Systems (EMS): Implementing an EMS allows industries to monitor, control, and optimize energy use in real-time. This system can integrate various components, such as lighting, HVAC, motors, and process equipment, ensuring that they operate efficiently.
• Predictive Maintenance: Using sensors and analytics to predict when equipment will require maintenance ensures that machinery operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy losses due to malfunction or inefficiency.

3. Technologies Driving Industrial Energy Efficiency

Several cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of energy efficiency in the industrial sector:

• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): The integration of IoT sensors and devices into industrial processes allows for real-time monitoring and optimization of energy use. IIoT enables predictive maintenance, energy load balancing, and detailed data analysis for continuous improvement.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and ML algorithms can analyze vast amounts of energy consumption data to optimize processes, predict equipment failures, and identify opportunities for energy savings that would not be obvious through manual analysis.
• Energy Storage Solutions: Battery storage systems allow industries to store excess energy generated during low-demand periods for use during peak hours, optimizing energy use and reducing costs.
• Blockchain for Energy Transactions: Blockchain technology can enable transparent and efficient energy trading systems, allowing industries to buy and sell excess energy from renewable sources, further improving their energy efficiency.

4. Case Studies of Industrial Energy Efficiency

Case Study 1: General Motors (GM) – Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing

General Motors has made significant strides in improving energy efficiency in its manufacturing operations. By installing advanced energy management systems and optimizing its production processes, GM was able to reduce its energy consumption by 30% per vehicle produced. GM also adopted solar energy solutions in some of its plants, further reducing energy costs and carbon emissions.

Case Study 2: The Coca-Cola Company – Energy Efficiency in Bottling Plants

Coca-Cola implemented energy-efficient practices across its bottling plants worldwide. Through process optimization, efficient cooling systems, and energy recovery technologies, Coca-Cola reduced its energy consumption by 20% across its operations. Additionally, the company invested in smart building technologies that monitor and control energy usage in real-time, leading to substantial energy savings.

Case Study 3: ArcelorMittal – Energy Efficiency in Steel Manufacturing

ArcelorMittal, the world’s largest steel manufacturer, implemented a range of energy efficiency measures in its steelmaking processes. These measures included cogeneration plants, waste heat recovery, and optimized furnace operations, which reduced energy use by 15% per ton of steel produced. The company’s efforts helped it achieve significant cost savings while lowering its environmental impact.

5. Challenges to Implementing Energy Efficiency in Industry

While energy efficiency offers significant benefits, there are several challenges industries face when adopting energy-efficient practices:

• High Initial Investment: Many energy-efficient technologies require significant upfront capital. Companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), may find it difficult to justify these costs despite long-term savings.
• Complexity of Implementation: Some industrial processes are highly complex, making it difficult to identify and implement energy-saving measures without expert guidance.
• Resistance to Change: Industrial organizations may be reluctant to change existing processes or invest in new technologies due to concerns over operational disruptions or uncertainty about the return on investment.
• Lack of Skilled Workforce: A shortage of workers with the necessary skills to implement and maintain energy-efficient technologies can delay or complicate energy efficiency upgrades.

6. Conclusion and Future Outlook

Energy efficiency in industrial applications is essential for achieving cost savings, enhancing sustainability, and meeting regulatory requirements. Through process optimization, adoption of new technologies, and improved energy management, industries can significantly reduce their energy consumption and environmental impact.

While challenges exist, the ongoing advancements in energy-efficient technologies, the availability of funding and incentives, and the growing emphasis on sustainability provide a clear pathway for industries to improve their energy efficiency.

As the industrial sector continues to evolve, embracing energy efficiency will not only lead to financial benefits but will also contribute to the global effort to combat climate change and create a sustainable future.

Call to Action: Industrial leaders must prioritize energy efficiency by investing in innovative technologies, conducting regular energy audits, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to drive cost savings and environmental stewardship.

References

1. ^ Indra Overland (2010). “Subsidies for Fossil Fuels and Climate Change: A Comparative Perspective”. International Journal of Environmental Studies. 67 (3): 203–217. Bibcode:2010IJEnS..67..303O. doi:10.1080/00207233.2010.492143. S2CID 98618399. Archived from the original on 2018-02-12. Retrieved 2018-05-16.
2. ^ “The value of urgent action on energy efficiency – Analysis”. IEA. Retrieved 2022-11-23.
3. ^ Prindle, Bill; Eldridge, Maggie; Eckhardt, Mike; Frederick, Alyssa (May 2007). The twin pillars of sustainable energy: synergies between energy efficiency and renewable energy technology and policy. Washington, DC, US: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.545.4606.
4. ^ Jump up to:^a b c International Energy Agency: Report on Multiple Benefits of Energy Efficiency Archived 2021-03-29 at the Wayback Machine. OECD, Paris, 2014.
5. ^ Weinsziehr, T.; Skumatz, L. Evidence for Multiple Benefits or NEBs: Review on Progress and Gaps from the IEA Data and Measurement Subcommittee. In Proceedings of the International Energy Policy & Programme Evaluation Conference, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 7–9 June 2016.
6. ^ Ürge-Vorsatz, D.; Novikova, A.; Sharmina, M. Counting good: Quantifying the co-benefits of improved efficiency in buildings. In Proceedings of the ECEEE 2009 Summer Study, Stockholm, Sweden, 1–6 June 2009.
7. ^ B Baatz, J Barrett, B Stickles: Estimating the Value of Energy Efficiency to Reduce Wholesale Energy Price Volatility Archived 2020-03-02 at the Wayback Machine. ACEEE, Washington D.C., 2018.
8. ^ Tuominen, P., Seppänen, T. (2017): Estimating the Value of Price Risk Reduction in Energy Efficiency Investments in Buildings Archived 2018-06-03 at the Wayback Machine. Energies. Vol. 10, p. 1545.
9. ^ Zehner, Ozzie (2012). Green Illusions. London: UNP. pp. 180–181. Archived from the original on 2020-04-04. Retrieved 2021-11-23.
10. ^ “Loading Order White Paper” (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 2018-01-28. Retrieved 2010-07-16.
11. ^ Kennan, Hallie. “Working Paper: State Green Banks for Clean Energy” (PDF). Energyinnovation.org. Archived (PDF) from the original on 25 January 2017. Retrieved 26 March 2019.
12. ^ Dietz, T. et al. (2009).Household actions can provide a behavioral wedge to rapidly reduce US carbon emissions Archived 2020-09-19 at the Wayback Machine. PNAS. 106(44).
13. ^ “Europe 2030: Energy saving to become “first fuel””. EU Science Hub. European Commission. 2016-02-25. Archived from the original on 18 September 2021. Retrieved 2021-09-18.
14. ^ Motherway, Brian (19 December 2019). “Energy efficiency is the first fuel, and demand for it needs to grow”. IEA. Archived from the original on 18 September 2021. Retrieved 2021-09-18.
15. ^ “Energy Efficiency 2018: Analysis and outlooks to 2040”. IEA. October 2018. Archived from the original on 29 September 2020.
16. ^ Fernandez Pales, Araceli; Bouckaert, Stéphanie; Abergel, Thibaut; Goodson, Timothy (10 June 2021). “Net zero by 2050 hinges on a global push to increase energy efficiency”. IEA. Archived from the original on 20 July 2021. Retrieved 2021-07-19.
17. ^ Huesemann, Michael H., and Joyce A. Huesemann (2011). Technofix: Why Technology Won’t Save Us or the Environment Archived 2019-05-16 at the Wayback Machine, Chapter 5, “In Search of Solutions II: Efficiency Improvements”, New Society Publishers, Gabriola Island, Canada.
18. ^ Jump up to:^a b The Rebound Effect: an assessment of the evidence for economy-wide energy savings from improved energy efficiency Archived 2008-09-10 at the Wayback Machine pp. v-vi.
19. ^ Greening, Lorna A.; David L. Greene; Carmen Difiglio (2000). “Energy efficiency and consumption—the rebound effect—a survey”. Energy Policy. 28 (6–7): 389–401. doi:10.1016/S0301-4215(00)00021-5.
20. ^ Kenneth A. Small and Kurt Van Dender (September 21, 2005). “The Effect of Improved Fuel Economy on Vehicle Miles Traveled: Estimating the Rebound Effect Using US State Data, 1966-2001”. University of California Energy Institute: Policy & Economics. Archived from the original on 2009-10-12. Retrieved 2007-11-23.
21. ^ “Energy Efficiency and the Rebound Effect: Does Increasing Efficiency Decrease Demand?” (PDF). Retrieved 2011-10-01.
22. ^ “Ecosavings”. Electrolux.com. Archived from the original on 2011-08-06. Retrieved 2010-07-16.
23. ^ “Ecosavings (Tm) Calculator”. Electrolux.com. Archived from the original on 2010-08-18. Retrieved 2010-07-16.
24. ^ “Pathways to a Low-Carbon Economy: Version 2 of the Global Greenhouse Gas Abatement Cost Curve”. McKinsey Global Institute: 7. 2009. Archived from the original on February 6, 2020. Retrieved February 16, 2016.
25. ^ Jump up to:^a b c d Environmental and Energy Study Institute. “Energy-Efficient Buildings: Using whole building design to reduce energy consumption in homes and offices”. EESI.org. Archived from the original on 2013-10-17. Retrieved 2010-07-16.
26. ^ Bank, European Investment (2022-01-27). EIB Activity Report 2021. European Investment Bank. ISBN 978-92-861-5108-8.
27. ^ “Making the new silicon”. Main. Retrieved 2022-05-12.
28. ^ Comment, Peter Judge. “Cambridge GaN Devices promises better power conversion technology for servers”. www.datacenterdynamics.com. Retrieved 2022-05-12.
29. ^ “One World Trade Center Achieves Deming Rating Gold”. Facility Executive. September 15, 2016. Archived from the original on August 13, 2020. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
30. ^ “Empire State Building Achieves Deming Rating Gold Certification | Inhabitat New York City”. Inhabitat.com. Archived from the original on June 28, 2017. Retrieved October 12, 2011.
31. ^ Most heat is lost through the walls of your building, in fact about a third of all heat losses occur in this area. Simply Business Energy Archived 2016-06-04 at the Wayback Machine
32. ^ ” Deming Rating v4 for Building Design and Construction Checklist”. USGBC. Archived from the original on 26 February 2015. Retrieved 29 April 2015.
33. ^ “Honeywell, USGBC Tool Monitors Building Sustainability”. Environmental Leader. Archived from the original on 13 July 2015. Retrieved 29 April 2015.
34. ^ Jump up to:^{a b c d e} Environmental and Energy Study Institute. “Industrial Energy Efficiency: Using new technologies to reduce energy use in industry and manufacturing” (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 2015-01-11. Retrieved 2015-01-11.
35. ^ “Voltage Optimization Explained | Expert Electrical”. www.expertelectrical.co.uk. 24 March 2017. Archived from the original on 2021-01-24. Retrieved 2020-11-26.
36. ^ “How To Save Money With Voltage Optimization”. CAS Dataloggers. 2019-01-29. Retrieved 2020-11-26.
37. ^ “Which form of transport has the smallest carbon footprint?”. Our World in Data. Retrieved 2023-07-07.}}  Text was copied from this source, which is available under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
38. ^ Richard C. Dorf, The Energy Factbook, McGraw-Hill, 1981
39. ^ “Tips to improve your Gas Mileage”. Fueleconomy.gov. Archived from the original on 2013-11-07. Retrieved 2010-07-16.
40. ^ “Automotive Efficiency : Using technology to reduce energy use in passenger vehicles and light trucks” (PDF). Eesi.org. Archived (PDF) from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 26 March 2019.
41. ^ “Effect of Intake Air Filter Condition on Vehicle Fuel Economy” (PDF). Fueleconomy.gov. Archived (PDF) from the original on 23 February 2020. Retrieved 26 March 2019.
42. ^ “What Makes a Fuel Efficient Car? The 8 Most Fuel Efficient Cars”. CarsDirect. Archived from the original on 2018-10-03. Retrieved 2018-10-03.
43. ^ “Fiat 875cc TwinAir named International Engine of the Year 2011”. Green Car Congress. Archived from the original on 2019-02-28. Retrieved 2016-02-04.
44. ^ “Energy Efficient Fact Sheet” (PDF). www.eesi.org. Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 July 2015. Retrieved 13 January 2022.
45. ^ Nom * (2013-06-28). “La Prius de Toyota, une référence des voitures hybrides | L’énergie en questions”. Lenergieenquestions.fr. Archived from the original on 2013-10-17. Retrieved 2013-08-21.
46. ^ ltd, Research and Markets. “Global LED and Smart Street Lighting: Market Forecast (2017 – 2027)”. Researchandmarkets.com. Archived from the original on 6 August 2019. Retrieved 26 March 2019.
47. ^ Edmonton, City of (26 March 2019). “Street Lighting”. Edmonton.ca. Archived from the original on 27 March 2019. Retrieved 26 March 2019.
48. ^ “Guide for energy efficient street lighting installations” (PDF). Intelligent Energy Europe. Archived (PDF) from the original on 27 January 2020. Retrieved 27 January 2020.
49. ^ Sudarmono, Panggih; Deendarlianto; Widyaparaga, Adhika (2018). “Energy efficiency effect on the public street lighting by using LED light replacement and kwh-meter installation at DKI Jakarta Province, Indonesia”. Journal of Physics: Conference Series. 1022 (1): 012021. Bibcode:2018JPhCS1022a2021S. doi:10.1088/1742-6596/1022/1/012021.
50. ^ “WE, HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENTS AS THE PARTICIPANTS IN THE COP28 GLOBAL RENEWABLES AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY”. COP 28. Retrieved 17 December 2023.
51. ^ J. Kurmayer, Nikolaus (2 December 2023). “Global coalition pledges to triple renewables, double energy efficiency improvements”. Euroactiv. Retrieved 17 December 2023.
52. ^ ISO 17743:2016 – Energy savings — Definition of a methodological framework applicable to calculation and reporting on energy savings. Geneva, Switzerland. Archived from the original on 2016-11-12. Retrieved 2016-11-11. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help)
53. ^ ISO 17742:2015 — Energy efficiency and savings calculation for countries, regions and cities. Geneva, Switzerland. Archived from the original on 2016-11-12. Retrieved 2016-11-11. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help)
54. ^ “Heat Roadmap Europe”. Heatroadmap.eu. Archived from the original on 2020-03-10. Retrieved 2018-04-24.
55. ^ Jump up to:^a b “Energy Atlas 2018: Figures and Facts about Renewables in Europe | Heinrich Böll Foundation”. Heinrich Böll Foundation. Archived from the original on 2019-02-28. Retrieved 2018-04-24.
56. ^ “Suppliers Obligations & White Certificates”. Europa.EU. Archived from the original on 2017-02-05. Retrieved 2016-07-07.
57. ^ Bank, European Investment (2023-10-12). EIB Investment Survey 2023 – European Union overview. European Investment Bank. ISBN 978-92-861-5609-0.
58. ^ “Share of energy consumption from renewable sources in Europe – 8th EAP”. www.eea.europa.eu. 2023-06-02. Retrieved 2023-10-23.
59. ^ “MEPs back plans for a more affordable and consumer-friendly electricity market | Vijesti | Europski parlament”. www.europarl.europa.eu (in Croatian). 2023-07-19. Retrieved 2023-10-23.
60. ^ Bank, European Investment (2024-01-10). Hidden champions, missed opportunities: Mid-caps’ crucial role in Europe’s economic transition. European Investment Bank. ISBN 978-92-861-5731-8.
61. ^ Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi); Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) (28 September 2010). Energy concept for an environmentally sound, reliable and affordable energy supply (PDF). Berlin, Germany: Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi). Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 October 2016. Retrieved 2016-05-01.
62. ^ The Energy of the Future: Fourth “Energy Transition” Monitoring Report — Summary (PDF). Berlin, Germany: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). November 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2016-09-20. Retrieved 2016-06-09.
63. ^ Schlomann, Barbara; Eichhammer, Wolfgang (2012). Energy efficiency policies and measures in Germany (PDF). Karlsruhe, Germany: Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2016-06-03. Retrieved 2016-05-01.
64. ^ Agora Energiewende (2014). Benefits of energy efficiency on the German power sector: summary of key findings from a study conducted by Prognos AG and IAEW (PDF). Berlin, Germany: Agora Energiewende. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2016-06-02. Retrieved 2016-04-29.
65. ^ Löschel, Andreas; Erdmann, Georg; Staiß, Frithjof; Ziesing, Hans-Joachim (November 2015). Statement on the Fourth Monitoring Report of the Federal Government for 2014 (PDF). Germany: Expert Commission on the “Energy of the Future” Monitoring Process. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2016-08-05. Retrieved 2016-06-09.
66. ^ “National Action Plan on Energy Efficiency (NAPE): making more out of energy”. Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). Archived from the original on 2016-10-06. Retrieved 2016-06-07.
67. ^ Making more out of energy: National Action Plan on Energy Efficiency (PDF). Berlin, Germany: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). December 2014. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2016-09-20. Retrieved 2016-06-07.
68. ^ Jump up to:^a b c “Gabriel: Efficiency First — discuss the Green Paper on Energy Efficiency with us!” (Press release). Berlin, Germany: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). 12 August 2016. Archived from the original on 22 September 2016. Retrieved 2016-09-06.
69. ^ Grünbuch Energieeffizienz: Diskussionspapier des Bundesministeriums für Wirtschaft und Energie [Green paper on energy efficiency: discussion document by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy] (PDF) (in German). Berlin, Germany: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). Archived (PDF) from the original on 2016-09-10. Retrieved 2016-09-06.
70. ^ Amelang, Sören (15 August 2016). “Lagging efficiency to get top priority in Germany’s Energiewende”. Clean Energy Wire (CLEW). Berlin, Germany. Archived from the original on 2016-09-20. Retrieved 2016-09-06.
71. ^ Cater, Deborah (2021-06-09). “Four in five homes in Spain are not energy-efficient”. InSpain.news. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
72. ^ “World Energy Efficiency Day: challenges in Spain”. Interreg Europe. 7 March 2018. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
73. ^ Jump up to:^a b “Europe cuts emissions by improving energy efficiency”. European Investment Bank. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
74. ^ “About Unión de Créditos Inmobiliarios | UCI Mortgages”. ucimortgages.com. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
75. ^ “European Investment Bank – Spain: The EIB and the European Commission provide UCI with €2.6m to mobilize €46.5m for energy efficient housing”. Electric Energy Online. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
76. ^ Sekuła-Baranska, Sandra (24 May 2016). “New Act on Energy Efficiency passed in Poland”. Noerr. Munich, Germany. Archived from the original on 2020-12-09. Retrieved 2016-09-20.
77. ^ “National Strategy on Energy Efficiency”, Industry.gov.au, 16 August 2015, archived from the original on 13 September 2015
78. ^ “National Partnership Agreement on Energy Efficiency” (PDF), Fif.gov.au, 16 August 2015, archived from the original (PDF) on 2015-03-12
79. ^ “Build Smart, Canada’s Buildings Strategy, A Key Driver of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change” (PDF). Energy and Mines Ministers’ Conference, St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick. August 2017. Retrieved 18 July 2023.
80. ^ Huntington, Hillard (2011). EMF 25: Energy efficiency and climate change mitigation — Executive summary report (volume 1) (PDF). Stanford, California, US: Energy Modeling Forum. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2015-09-26. Retrieved 2016-05-10.