Thematic session: Smart and efficient appliances fit for the future

Event background

In today’s context of energy market volatility and economic uncertainty, energy efficiency remains one of the most effective tools to support affordability, energy security and competitiveness. The 11th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency will bring together global leaders to accelerate action, with smart and efficient appliances highlighting the importance of demand-side solutions.

Appliances account for a growing share of global electricity demand due to electrification, rising living standards and more extreme temperatures. Improving their efficiency is essential to lowering energy bills, easing pressure on power systems and strengthening resilience.

Governments already have effective tools such as Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), labelling and incentives, which have reduced inefficient products, lowered costs and driven innovation. These policies remain essential and must continue to evolve.

At the same time, electricity markets are changing rapidly. Smart and connected appliances are no longer passive consumers: they can provide demand flexibility while maintaining service quality. Well-designed product policies can unlock this potential, reducing peak demand, improving energy security and avoiding costly grid investments.

This session will explore how countries can strengthen and modernise appliance policies to deliver affordability, security and competitiveness, while supporting more resilient and demand-responsive energy systems.