The ways we heat, cool, travel, and power our devices determine demand for energy. Efficiency and electrification are key to energy services with the lowest lifecycle, economic, social, and environmental costs.
The transition from traditional lighting methods to modern illumination in the United Kingdom has had significant social, economic, and environmental consequences. Historically, lighting services relied on candles made from animal fat, but the 19th century saw the introduction of new fuels such as town gas, kerosene, and eventually electricity.
Roger Fouquet’s research on the United Kingdom highlights the remarkable growth in energy consumption over centuries. Factors like fuel shifts, improved efficiency, and changing preferences drove the increases. However, efficiency gains led to the rebound effect, where saved energy was partly offset by increased consumption.
Weatherization offers energy and non-energy benefits to households. It involves insulating homes, installing energy-efficient systems, and reducing energy bills. Non-energy benefits include improved health outcomes, such as reduced thermal stress and asthma symptoms. However, challenges like deferred assistance, low coverage, and bias against renters limit the program’s impact.
Renew Boston Trust is a program launched by the City of Boston to improve energy efficiency in municipal buildings. By implementing energy conservation measures, such as lighting upgrades and weatherization, the program aims to reduce energy use and lower greenhouse gas emissions
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