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Commentary
09 Jun 2026
The energy crisis creates even stronger impetus for EU electrification
…energy consumption relies on fossil fuels, of which the EU imports more than 80%.This commentary is the first in a series examining the case for electrification in the EU, identifying cost competitiveness and areas where targeted policies could catalyse change. Fuel price ratios determine electrification competitiveness To make electrification cost-competitive, electricity prices need to fall below a threshold ratio relative to the price of fossil fuels. Because most electrification options are several times more efficient than conventional alternatives, they can be cheaper to operate than conventional fuel-based technologies even when electricity costs more per unit of energy…
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Fuel report
Dec 2025
The Value of Demand Flexibility
Benefits beyond balancing This policy brief, developed under the International Energy Agency’s Digital Demand-Driven Electricity Networks (3DEN) Initiative, examines the value of demand flexibility as a core component of modern electricity systems, with a strong emphasis on its role in improving energy efficiency. As electricity demand grows and power systems become more electrified, decentralised and renewable-rich, managing when and how electricity is used is increasingly as important as expanding supply.The brief sets out a clear framework for understanding demand flexibility and highlights its contribution to an efficiency-first approach to power system planning and operation. By…
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Country report
Mar 2026
Efficient Grid-Interactive Buildings in India
…and the share of variable renewable energy in electricity generation is continuously growing. Without targeted action, unmanaged peak loads and variable supply could jeopardise grid stability and increase system costs. EGIBs offer an important solution for optimising electricity use, reducing peak demand and enhancing system flexibility.Applying a structured framework, this report assesses India’s policy landscape and opportunities across efficiency, decarbonisation, smartness, resilience, materials and building-to-grid interaction. It concludes with recommendations for a comprehensive policy package that encompasses regulations, incentives and information. Scaling up the adoption of efficient grid-interactive buildings would enable India to align its…
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Commentary
21 Apr 2026
How governments can best support consumers during this energy crisis
…untargeted energy bill support primarily benefits higher-income households and puts pressure on public finances When prices rise sharply, governments often first turn to broad-based price support measures that can provide immediate relief to consumers. This is already happening, with several countries in Asia and Europe temporarily capping fuel prices or reducing energy taxes.However, while untargeted support measures can be implemented relatively quickly, they present two major challenges. First, universally lowering the price of fuel when supply is tight sends the wrong market signal, weakening incentives to reduce energy use and improve efficiency in the context of the…
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Policy report
Jun 2026
Best Practices and Insights to Expand Clean Energy Access and Adoption
…follow low-emissions practices and are resilient and inclusive. It draws on international evidence, including workshop discussions, IEA analysis and a wide range of global case studies, to identify key impacts and lessons learned from evidence and practice. It highlights how behaviour change is most effective when supported by coherent policy frameworks, targeted measures addressing affordability and structural changes across sectors such as buildings, transport and appliances. By identifying good practices and practical insights, the report provides guidance to support policymakers design inclusive strategies that enable sustainable lifestyles and ensure the benefits of the energy transition are shared by all.
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Energy system
Biofuels
Country and regional highlights
The United States Inflation Reduction Act makes USD 9.4 billion available for biofuels
Energy
Biofuel demand increased by 6% in 2022, continuing the recent pace of growth
Technology deployment
Biofuel production technology needs to diversify to sustainably take advantage of existing waste and residue feedstocks
Innovation
Technologies that can convert woody feedstocks into biofuels need to be proven at scale in the next few years
Supporting infrastructure
Policy
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Technology report
May 2026
Overview graphic: key technology trends for EVs
…control. Sensors and chips integrate well with the stable, high-voltage power supply of EV batteries. At the same time, the benefits of AI and increased computing power are not exclusive to EVs. AI‑enabled energy management systems are increasingly used to optimise hybrid vehicles, and AI techniques are accelerating the design, testing and optimisation of all vehicles.Finally, technologies enabling EV-grid integration are becoming increasingly available, allowing EVs to play a larger role in the energy system and improving their value proposition. With the rollout of smart and bidirectional charging, EV owners can reduce charging costs and, in some cases…
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Technology report
Feb 2026
The State of Energy Innovation 2026
The second edition of The State of Energy Innovation turns the spotlight on the technologies, policies and funders at the forefront of energy technology development. It provides a comprehensive assessment of recent progress and emerging challenges in energy technology innovation, drawing on over 150 innovation highlights from 2025 and a survey of practitioners across more than 40 countries. It analyses trends in public and corporate R&D spending, venture capital flows, patenting and policy, as well as providing an update on progress towards the 18 IEA Races to First in energy innovation. This data-driven approach informs policy makers, industry…