Energy efficiency–the power of a million small actions
Since the 1970s, energy efficiency has contributed more to our economic prosperity than any other single source of energy supply. This is the power of a million small, and often invisible, actions. eceee makes these actions visible!
The smart environmental approach
Energy efficiency is a fundamental component of our energy and environment policies. Cutting energy demand reduces greenhouse gas emissions in a more cost-effective way than any other energy or climate policy. The International Energy Agency’s 2012 World Energy Outlook strongly featured energy efficiency as the key way forward.
But energy efficiency has other environmental benefits than just climate protection. Local air quality, for instance, can be improved by reducing emissions through lower energy consumption.
Jobs, energy security and competitiveness
Massive investments in energy efficiency can contribute to getting people throughout Europe back to work. Cutting energy demand will make Europe more economically resilient and more productive.
Energy efficiency is also one of the most effective means toward improved energy security – cheaper and cleaner than investments in pipelines and shale gas.
This becomes obvious by focusing on the energy services we need rather than looking out for a way to secure more kilowatt hours or barrels of oil.
Energy efficiency and renewables
Energy efficiency and renewables have been seen as competitors for investments and attention. But, in fact, the opposite is true.
Europe has a goal of supplying our energy needs by 20% renewables by 2020. Increased shares of renewables are currently under discussion for 2030 and onwards.
By cutting our energy demand, we make it much easier to reach those goals. Investing in energy efficiency gives us more time and helps us to avoid some of the most difficult choices between land use, food production, landscape protection and renewable quotas.
Energy efficiency provides us with the time needed to replace fossil fuels and other non-sustainable energy sources with renewables in an ecological, economic and socially responsible manner.
