资源环境科技发展态势分析平台

Energy efficiency refers to using less energy to provide an energy service. For example, energy-efficient LED light bulbs are able to produce the same amount of light as incandescent light bulbs by using 75 to 80 percent less electricity. Since energy production typically creates pollution and greenhouse gases, improving the energy efficiency of certain technologies has the potential to significantly reduce energy consumption and consequently reduce emissions from the energy sector.

Investing in energy efficiency is often described as being a “win-win”: by reducing the amount of energy used, efficiency measures can reduce energy consumption (and, consequently, impacts from energy use) and save customers money. Energy-efficient devices can cost more upfront (such as LED light bulbs relative to incandescent bulbs), but they often generate net savings for energy consumers in the long run.

This explainer explores methods for improving energy efficiency in buildings and transportation, barriers to greater adoption of energy-efficient technologies, challenges in effectively reducing energy use after the adoption of new technologies, and policy options for overcoming these barriers.