The First Fuel

the energy transition isn't about new ways of generation,  just it's also about maximizing what we already have 

- damien martın

Efficiency is the hallmark of many a successful venture, and when it comes to fighting climate change, energy efficiency is a secret weapon of sorts. Getting more out of what we already generate is a way to cut emissions without adding more capacity, buying time for the installation of more renewable infrastructure and smarter grids. Energy efficiency is the “first fuel” in clean energy transitions, the IEA says, “as it provides some of the quickest and most cost-effective CO2 mitigation options while lowering energy bills and strengthening energy security.”

While there is deservedly a great deal of emphasis on adding renewable capacity, making the most of the existing energy system is just as critical.

“We need to make energy efficiency as sexy as wind turbines,” said Sofie Irgens, head of the climate solutions accelerator at Danish multinational Danfoss, told Reuters.

Energy Efficiency 2.0

Danfoss’ whitepaper “Energy Efficiency 2.0: Engineering the Future Energy System” lays out four basic ways to maximize efficiency.

The first is to electrify wherever possible. Since most electric technologies have a lower rate of energy loss than fossil-fuel equivalents when performing the same tasks, a fully electrified energy system can cut final energy consumption by up to 40%.