In this article, we will discuss the 5 most energy-efficient countries in the world. To read our detailed analysis of the most energy efficient countries, you can go to the 20 Most Efficient Countries in the World.
5. Italy
Total Final Energy Consumption (Ktoe): 119,063
ACEEE Score: 68.5
Industrial Sector Score: 18.5
ETI Score: 60.6
Average: 49.2
Italy has a strong inclination towards achieving energy efficiency. It has set enthusiastic goals like reducing primary energy consumption by 43% by 2030. It also aims to decrease GHG emissions significantly. The white certificate scheme has been prominent in achieving these goals. This strong commitment is also noticeably clear in the industrial sector. Several policies enable and encourage energy efficiency, especially in the industrial sector.
4. Japan
Total Final Energy Consumption (Ktoe): 283,020
ACEEE Score: 63.5
Industrial Sector Score: 21
ETI Score: 63.3
Average: 49.26
The national efforts towards energy efficiency in Japan are noteworthy. Despite being one of the biggest energy consumers globally, it has significantly decreased energy intensity. The government encourages energy efficiency and invests in energy efficiency R&D. Japan’s thermal power plants are also highly efficient. The blend of state policies and voluntary action has encouraged energy efficiency overall and made it rank among the top five efficient countries in the world.
3. Germany
Total Final Energy Consumption (Ktoe): 222,678
ACEEE Score: 71.5
Industrial Sector Score: 19.5
ETI Score: 67.5
Average: 52.83
The state efforts towards energy efficiency in Germany are commendable. A comprehensive energy strategy, Energiewende, has been put in place. Germany aims to reduce its total energy consumption by 50% by 2050. It also has set ambitious goals to reduce GHG by 55% below 1990 levels. The country is set to achieve this by 2030. Germany has also put in place tax credits incentivizing the use of energy-efficient technology.
2. U.K.
Total Final Energy Consumption (Ktoe): 128,743
ACEEE Score: 72.5
Industrial Sector Score: 20.5
ETI Score: 66.2
Average: 53.06
The United Kingdom also has a strong commitment to achieving energy efficiency. It aims to reduce GHG emissions significantly. Its goal is to achieve the net zero target by 2030. It is the global leader in decarbonization. The country has effective thermal power plants. There is also attention towards energy efficiency R&D. With an average score of 53.06, the UK is placed second on our list of the most efficient countries in the world.
1. France
Total Final Energy Consumption (Ktoe): 151,378
ACEEE Score: 74.5
Industrial Sector Score: 18
ETI Score: 70.6
Average: 54.36
France has been prominent in energy efficiency efforts, especially concerning the E.U.’s Energy efficiency directives. It has the second-largest nuclear fleet in the world. It will reduce the energy share of nuclear power to 50% in its electricity mix by 2035. The country aims to reduce energy consumption by 20% by 2030 and 37% reduction in GHG emissions below 2005 levels by 2030. It has set a net zero emission target for 2050. The white certificate trading program has also been pivotal in achieving this goal. The government policy encourages low-energy buildings. France is the most efficient country in the world, in terms of energy efficiency.
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