Energy efficiency obligation – evaluation of impact and cost

Ea Energy Analyses, in collaboration with NIRAS and Viegand & Maagøe, has conducted an evaluation of the energy companies’ energy efficiency obligation with a view to making recommendations for possible adjustments of the obligation framework and guidelines as of 2013.

The overall purpose of the evaluation has been to assess whether the agreed framework and guidelines for the energy efficiency obligation are adequate and functioning properly, so that the obligation best possible can promote energy efficiency in a cost effective manner.

The evaluation will promote cost-effective energy savings

Evaluation of the energy efficiency obligation is an important tool in the cost-effective promotion of energy savings across sectors and energy types. Energy saving is the cheapest way to reduce CO2 emissions and favours a technology and market trend towards more energy efficient appliances, systems and behaviour.

With the agreement of 20 November 2009 between the Minister for Climate and Energy and the grid and distribution companies for electricity, natural gas, district heating, and oil on the companies’ future energy saving effort changes were introduced in the energy saving obligation.

Focus on additionality and socio-economic costs

In addition to an assessment of additionality and the socio-economic cost, the evaluation focuses on an assessment of calculation methods, prioritization factors, documentation, quality assurance, the companies’ cost, and the use of external actors.