Global energy efficiency policy highlights 2013

While five countries worked towards three energy efficiency policies of note this year, Ireland, Italy and Turkey have focused on energy efficiency policy as highlighted below.

Ireland

Energy saving targets for energy suppliers is playing a bit part in Irish energy efficiency policy. The programme is a central part of Ireland’s energy efficiency policy and is also part of its wider energy and climate policies. The programme is run on a voluntary basis and covers 19 energy supply companies across electricity, gas, solid fuels and oil importers. Whilst the programme is voluntary, legislation allows the Irish first minister to impost energy savings targets on energy suppliers even if they choose not to sign an energy saving agreement.

As part of the programme, energy suppliers are required to submit an annual plan in advance of each operational year, setting out their energy savings targets.

Italy

Energy efficiency policy in Italy has been implemented through White Certificates (WhCs) and a 55% tax rebate scheme. The schemes, introduced in 2005 and 2007 respectively, aim at purposes such as reduced GHG emissions, reduced energy import dependence and development of the energy efficiency market. Both were developed as complimentary policies to the European Union Emission Trading Scheme.

WhCs are seen as a trading incentive scheme which promotes energy efficiency in the industry sector and each WhC represents a saving of 1 t of oil equivalent (toe). The tax rebate programme is aimed at households. A 55% rebate is awarded to homeowners who undertake energy efficiency retrofits and measures.

Turkey

Turkey has placed energy efficiency at the heart of its energy policy. It is in the process of embarking on an energy strategy that targets comprehensive liberalisation, the establishment of competitive markets and an investor friendly environment. Turkey is also updating its energy policy to be EU member country compatible. Turkey views energy efficiency as important to energy security of supply for its fast growing economy and as a way to reduce pollution.

An Energy Efficiency Law was introduced in Turkey in 2007 which covers;

• Increasing and supporting energy efficiency.
• Setting up energy consulting companies.
• Forming energy management systems.
• Promoting energy efficiency investments.
• Increasing energy efficiency in transport and buildings.
• Preventing the sale of inefficient appliances.
• Increasing awareness.

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/gas-processing/10122013/global_energy_efficiency_policy_2013_901/