Real Prospects for Energy Efficiency in the United States

National Academies - As part of the America's Energy Future project, Realistic Prospects for Energy Efficiency in the United States examines the potential for reducing energy demand through improving efficiency by using existing technologies, technologies developed but not yet utilized widely, and prospective technologies. The book evaluates technologies based on their estimated times to initial commercial deployment, and provides an analysis of costs, barriers, and research needs. This quantitative characterization of technologies will guide policy makers toward planning the future of energy use in America. This book will also have much to offer to industry leaders, investors, environmentalists, and others looking for a practical diagnosis of energy efficiency possibilities.

General Findings:

1. U.S. DOE-funded research and development (R&D) on energy-efficient technologies has been highly productive. Energy efficiency is a dynamic resource. Basic and applied research can continue to develop technologies that deliver large energy savings. If the potential for energy efficiency technologies is to be realized beyond the next decade, the dynamic nature of the resource must be recognized and supported.
2.  The most cost-effective energy efficiency policies and programs of the last three decades (see Chapter 5) were vehicle and appliance efficiency standards, regulatory reforms to promote the adoption of combined heat and power systems, ENERGY STAR® product labeling and promotion, building energy codes, and utility and state end-use efficiency programs. Common characteristics of the most effective policies include:

• Periodic analysis and revision to assess effectiveness and to account for new technologies and opportunities;
• Financial incentives (if used) structured so that they reward performance and stimulate further action by consumers and businesses, rather than simply subsidize “efficiency” indiscriminately; and
• Integration of policies into market transformation strategies that address the full range of barriers present in a particular situation.