Germany and China are dedicated to achieving climate neutrality in 2050 and carbon neutrality in 2060 respectively. Improving energy efficiency receives increasing attention as one of the most promising actions to reach the ambitious goals of both countries.
“Energy Efficiency Network” (EEN) as a proven instrument of German energy efficiency policy is making an important contribution towards improving energy efficiency in industry, trade, and commerce. ENNs connect energy service companies (ESCOs), local municipalities and energy consumers such as producing companies and real estate firms. The network of experts in EEN can identify potentials for energy saving and implement energy efficiency projects effectively.
In Germany, more than 300 energy efficiency networks with over 2700 companies have been newly founded since the start of “Energy Efficiency Initiative” in 2014. Until 2020, energy efficiency networks have collectively reduced CO2 emissions by almost 5 million tons. The monitoring shows that energy efficiency networks save on average 11,700 tons CO2 per year and exceed their self-imposed targets by 111%.