Energy Efficiency
If we simplify the definition of energy efficiency, we see that it consists of maximizing the use of energy using the least amount of it.
This term has increased in popularity in recent years for several reasons. As consumers we are interested in making the most of our investment in energy, using the least amount of resources possible and obtaining significant savings. It should be noted that energy efficiency does not imply giving up quality of life.
At a more general level, it is the most effective means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and trying to curb climate change. In addition, it represents one of the most fundamental factors for a country’s sectors to be competitive. Some of the benefits globally are greater energy security, less pressure on national and household budgets, greater reliability of electric power systems, greater competitiveness, and improved operations in key sectors, such as education and health.
Origin of World Energy Efficiency Day
The origin of this day dates back to 1998 in Austria, where an International Conference debated energy alternatives due to the possibility of the future depletion of fossil fuels. In that meeting, a day was agreed to give importance to caring for and making responsible use of energy.
How to achieve energy efficiency
The UN marks energy efficiency as one of the fundamental strategies for the achievement of 5 of the 17 SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
7 Affordable and non-polluting energy
9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure
11 Sustainable cities and communities
12 Responsible production and consumption
13 Climate action
On an individual level, what can we do to be more energy efficient?
One of the simplest initiatives, but with a great global impact, is to turn off all the lights that we do not need. Take advantage of natural light whenever possible, and failing that, opt for more sustainable lighting sources, such as LED lights, which when used reduce CO2 emissions by 80%. 15% of energy consumption worldwide is consumed in lighting.
We must also opt for process improvement, recycling, the use of less polluting products and use only that energy that we are actually going to use.
Efficiency within the framework of the European Union
The Energy Efficiency Directive (Directives 2012/27/EU and 2018/2002/EU) has constituted the framework for action, until 2020, for all member countries of the European Union. This directive established as its main objective a 20% energy saving, in order not to exceed 123.4 Mtoe (million tons of oil equivalent) in terms of primary energy consumption (discounting non-energy uses).
In the case of Spain, an energy efficiency target for 2021-2030 has been set, approved by the European Union. This energy plan will entail additional savings each year, from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2030, of 669 ktoe/year (thousands of tonnes of oil equivalent/year).
Luxes LED luminaires contribute every year to a more sustainable world
Luxes luminaires and lamps comply with strict quality controls and CE, AENOR, IQNet certifications, thus guaranteeing the highest quality of their products.
