Australia could nearly double its energy productivity by 2030, with half the potential increase achieved through energy efficiency activities in our homes, offices, buildings, vehicles and industries. This includes simple measures like using LED lighting and more efficient heating and cooling systems to the automation of some industrial processes and improving energy data systems.

A new report by Climate Works Australia has found that energy productivity could dramatically increase without major structural changes to the economy, using available technologies.  This would deliver significant benefits to the economy and a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

The report found Australia could increase its economic output from 24.3 cents of GDP in 2010 to 47.9 cents of GDP in 2030 – a 97 per cent improvement.  A further 36 per cent of the potential can be realised by switching from old fossil fuel generation to more efficient technologies such as gas co-generation and renewables and reducing energy losses that occur through the energy distribution process.

ClimateWorks says an ambitious national energy productivity target similar to the one introduced in the United States would help accelerate improvements across the economy.

Energy efficiency is generally a cost saving, and while increasing electrification and moving away from old fossil fuel power stations involves increased investment today, these costs are continuing to fall.

Read more about Australia’s Energy Productivity Potential and download the report here.