Chasing Our Tails? Rebound effects from improved energy efficiency
Part of the CCCEP / SRI seminar series 2011-2012
It is generally assumed that energy efficiency improvements will reduce overall energy consumption, at least compared to a scenario in which such improvements are not made.
But a range of mechanisms, commonly grouped under the heading of rebound effects, may reduce the size of the 'energy savings' achieved. For example, more fuel efficient cars will make car travel cheaper, and could therefore encourage people to drive further and/or more often.
Indeed, an influential group of analysts have argued that improved energy efficiency will lead to increased energy consumption over the long term, implying that promoting energy efficiency as a means to reduce carbon emissions would be akin to a dog chasing its tail.
This talk explored the mechanisms that contribute to these rebound effects, reviewed the evidence regarding their magnitude and importance, reported on some recent estimates of rebound effects for UK households, and summarised the implications for climate policy and sustainability.
Date and location: 16 November, School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds
Speaker: Steven Sorrell (University of Sussex)
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