IEA Calls National Governments to Focus on Energy Efficiency

The International Energy Agency remarked the importance of energy efficiency measures to boost economic and social development, calling on governments to increase investments. 

"This report lays out the case for governments to invest more time in measuring the impacts of energy efficiency policies, to improve understanding of their role in boosting economic and social development and to facilitate policy design that maximises the benefits prioritised by each country," IEA Executive Director Maria van der Hoeven said in Berlin on Tuesday.  

According to a note released by the agency, two-thirds of the economically viable energy efficiency potential available between now and 2035 will remain unrealised unless an active participation of national governments.  

IEA Executive Director also said that the market for energy efficiency is growing, with aggregate annual investment reaching USD 300 billion in 2012 – equal to investments in coal, oil and gas generation.

Her declaration was in line with the speech given by UK’s Edward Davey. 

“Our business community has recognised that decarbonisation and securing long-term prosperity go hand in hand. From the savings that can be made through energy efficiency to the growth prospects through the supply chain,” Davey said as reported by a communiqué published on the website of the British government.