Efficiency gains alone aren’t enough to decrease energy use

The shift from fluorescent lamps to low-cost LED bulbs was expected to reduce household electricity demand. However, studies show that many users compensate by installing more lights or leaving them on longer. To save energy, user behaviour must also change along with the technology. — Filepic/AFP

ENERGY efficiency is widely promoted as a key strategy for reducing electricity consumption, yet new evidence suggests that actual savings may be far smaller than expected. 

Researchers warn that the rebound effect, a behavioural response where consumers increase usage when technologies become cheaper and more efficient, is significantly weakening global and national energy-saving targets.