IEA Scoreboard 2011

IEA Scoreboard 2011: Implementing Energy Efficiency Policy

Overview

In 2009, the International Energy Agency (IEA) published the IEA Scoreboard 2009, which focused on 35 key energy trends over 35 years. This was accompanied by the publication "Implementing Energy Efficiency Policies: Are IEA Member Countries on Track?" Both reports highlighted that while IEA member countries had made progress in implementing energy efficiency policies, more work was needed.

Focus of the 2011 Edition

The 2011 edition of the IEA Scoreboard focuses specifically on energy efficiency. This publication combines analysis of energy efficiency policy implementation and recent indicator development. It provides a comprehensive overview of the progress and challenges in implementing energy efficiency policies in IEA member countries.

Key Data and Trends

• Energy Efficiency Gains: From 1974 to 1990, energy efficiency gains were about 1.9% per year. However, from 1990 onwards, gains dropped significantly to only 1% due to lower energy prices and a slowdown in the implementation of efficiency measures.
• IEA Member Countries: The report covers 28 IEA member countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States, along with the European Commission.

Importance of Energy Efficiency

Given the current economic uncertainties and high energy prices, energy efficiency has become increasingly important for achieving a sustainable energy future. The IEA aims to enhance energy security and sustainability through effective energy efficiency programs.

Methodology

The analysis in the 2011 edition is both quantitative and qualitative. It quantifies the energy efficiency savings from the establishment of the IEA in 1974 to 2008 and qualitatively assesses the measures and actions taken by IEA countries since 2009 towards implementing the IEA's 25 energy efficiency policy recommendations.

Conclusion

The IEA Scoreboard 2011 demonstrates that energy efficiency can play a significant role in reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. While the assessment is not comprehensive, it shows that energy efficiency trends may be reversing after the decline observed since 1990. The report highlights the importance of supporting energy efficiency in national energy policies, from data collection and indicator establishment to policy impact assessment.

Acknowledgments

The publication acknowledges the contributions of various IEA staff members, statisticians, and analysts who provided timely and comprehensive data. Special thanks are extended to those who contributed to the design and layout of the publication.