Could focusing on barriers to industrial energy efficiency create a new barrier to energy efficiency?

摘要

Industry is an essential part of the search for greenhouse gas emission reductions. Implementing energy efficiency measures is one way industry can optimise energy use and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Previous research has highlighted that a number of barriers impede the implementation of energy efficiency measures, creating the energy efficiency gap. This study explores the barriers that impede implementation of energy efficiency measures by combining the results from a systematic literature review and primary research. The systematic literature review found information on barriers is predominantly generated using surveys and interviews with company managers and company size may have more influence on barriers than energy intensity. The primary research showed barriers reported by frontline workers are different to those experienced by managers and that drivers contribute action on energy efficiency. The results also showed existing taxonomies are not well suited to representing frontline workers' views. Thus, attempting to close the energy efficiency gap by focusing solely on barriers, may create a new barrier, particularly if the roles of frontline workers and drivers continue to be overlooked. Further research is proposed to develop and empirically test extensions to the current driver and barrier taxonomies so the views of all stakeholders can be meaningfully incorporated.