This working paper discusses the interplay between energy efficiency improvements and the deployment of renewable energy technologies.

It argues that if the respective potentials in these two fields are combined, total global energy demand can be reduced by up to a quarter by 2030. Energy efficiency measures would account for half to three-quarters of the total energy savings, with renewables delivering the rest.

Quantitative analysis used data for eight countries – China, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States – covering half of global energy use.

The paper highlights that increasing renewables from 18 per cent in 2010 to 36 per cent by 2030 will create jobs, reduce pollution and provide half of the emission cuts needed to avoid the worst effects of climate change. It argues that following such a path is not only technically feasible but more affordable than current energy policies.

[Adapted from source]