Energy Efficiency Twice As Powerful As Clean Energy

Posted on 15. Jul, 2010 by Ross in Oceania

Still doubting whether using energy efficient lighting can really help save the planet?

Well, Australians seem to think so now. The Energy Efficiency Council of Australia issued a report which estimates that under current trends and investments, energy efficiency will deliver 65% of global carbon reduction by 2020 and 53% by 2030.

That means that over the next decade, energy efficiency will be responsible for twice as much carbon emission reductions as clean coal, nuclear and renewable energy sources all combined.

On a more local scale, energy efficiency would be equivalent to removing every single Australian car from the road altogether.

Businesses are the primary arena massive gains in energy efficiency, saving companies billions in energy costs and reducing atmospheric pollution in the bargain. 40% of Australia’s energy usage is caused by just 220 companies. Despite the lack of an Australian cap-and-trade scheme, the business case for energy efficiency is clear.

Companies can cut energy use through a multitude of ways, from insulation and energy efficient lighting to cradle-to-cradle sustainable design. Whatever the method, the results are clear: lower costs, quick return on investment, less legislation risks and stronger green PR. Leave the Ostrich Block and cut your energy use now - the longer you leave it, the more money you’re wasting!

Image of a rusty Australian car by certified su @ Flickr