Conservation First! A New ESCo Model to Combine Energy Efficency and Renewable Supply in Large Buildings and Industry
Abstract
“Any renewable supply should first of all focus on energy conservation by evaluating all possible demand reduction opportunities. Only afterwards the remaining demand is supplied as efficiently as possible – preferably from renewables. Otherwise climate protection goals are not achievable.” [Bleyl 2009] A good example for this thesis is the reduction of all electrical and thermal cooling loads including solar shading options before assessing and implementing an air conditioning unit. The literature provides numerous support for this thesis. To quote a prominent source: According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the improvement of end-use efficiency is the largest contributor to CO2 saving potentials. „At the point of use, the largest contributor to avoided CO2 emissions is improved end-use efficiency, accounting for nearly two-thirds of total savings. Increased use of Renewables in power generation and of bio-fuels in transport account for only 12%.“