Energy efficiency

The first fuel of a sustainable global energy system

The IEA works with policy makers and stakeholders to scale up action on energy efficiency to mitigate climate change, improve energy security and grow economies while delivering environmental and social benefits.

Key findings

Global improvements in primary energy intensity, 2000-2018

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Global energy efficiency improvements are slowing

In 2018, primary energy intensity - an important indicator of how much energy is used by the global economy - improved by just 1.2%, the slowest rate since 2010. This was significantly slower than the 1.7% improvement in 2017 and marked the third year in a row the rate has declined. It was also well below the average 3% improvement consistent with the IEA's Efficient World Strategy, first described in Energy Efficiency 2018.

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Our work

In addition to cutting-edge analysis, the IEA also facilitates the exchange of knowledge through our training programs, workshops, and research collaborations, and works to support energy efficiency with partners and at key global fora such as the G7 and G20 and through the Energy Efficiency in Emerging Economies Programme (E4).

The Global Commission for Urgent Action on Energy Efficiency will examine how progress on energy efficiency can be rapidly accelerated through new and stronger policy action by governments across the globe. It will develop a series of actionable recommendations that will be announced in the summer of 2020.

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