Many analysts used to assume that energy efficiency leads to a one-to-one reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Increasing the efficiency of buildings, vehicles, appliances, and industry plays “a key role” in climate mitigation scenarios envisioned by today’s leading environmental and consulting organization, including McKinsey, the National Resource Defense Council,7 Rocky Mountain Institute, and the ClimateWorks Foundation.9 But in recent years a growing number of economists and energy analysts have challenged the assumptions and methods behind these studies. These economists and energy analysts have criticized many of most bullish efficiency reports and projections, faulting them for underestimating the technical, financial, and information barriers to pursuing energy efficiency improvements.
Is energy efficiency an effective climate strategy?
Category:
Energy Efficiency