The energy transition towards renewable energy is a priority that should be taken up by all countries in the world. However, as it is a costly and slow process, it can be accompanied by a significant improvement in energy efficiency that helps save on raw materials, reduce pollution and reduce overall costs to the domestic and national economy.
Responsible consumption based on energy saving is key to improving energy efficiency. It also contributes to reducing pollution and is a crucial tool in the fight against climate change. In this article, we discuss how to improve energy efficiency and give detailed recommendations for implementing improvements both at home and in other key sectors such as transport and industry.
Energy efficiency
As we move towards the energy transition with the use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, it is equally vital to improve the energy efficiency of the appliances and systems we use every day in all sectors. This means using only the energy we really need, which can significantly improve the quality of life in homes, substantially reduce electricity and gas bills, and reduce the negative effects on the environment.
In homes, proper energy management and improved consumption, such as adopting measures such as the use of efficient heating and cooling systems, can mean up to 22% savings on your bill, according to different studies. But not only that, it also contributes directly to the reduction of greenhouse gases, an objective pursued by the Paris Agreement and that we need to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The concept of energy efficiency, far from being complex, encompasses small, everyday actions that have a very significant impact in the long term. Although much of this process depends on improvements implemented by the energy industries, the conscious and efficient use of household appliances is crucial. And this is where we can actively contribute from our homes.
Recommendations to improve energy efficiency
One of the most accessible ways to improve energy efficiency in homes is through efficient heating systems, such as those that run on natural gas. These types of systems have a high calorific value, which reduces the amount of energy needed to achieve the same results compared to other, less efficient systems.
Other small actions are also essential to significantly reduce consumption, which translates into paying less on electricity and gas bills:
- Check that the radiators are free of air and bleed them if necessary.
- Close radiator valves in rooms that are not being used.
- Do not block radiators with furniture or clothing so that the heat is distributed efficiently.
- Maintain good insulation on doors and windows to prevent temperature leaks.
In addition, it is recommended to use programmable thermostats that adjust the temperature according to the use and needs of the home. It has been shown that keeping the heating at a 20 degrees during the day and between 16-18 degrees at night It is enough to feel comfortable and at the same time reduce consumption. For each additional degree that we raise the temperature, energy consumption can increase by 5% to 8%, which considerably increases costs.
It is also essential to take into account the quality of the appliances we buy. Those that have the energy efficiency label of A class They represent a much more efficient option than class G cars, since the former consume up to 22% less.
Automation and use of renewable energy at home
In addition to efficient appliances, automating electrical and air conditioning systems in the home can also be key to achieving maximum energy savingsUsing home automation systems that optimize lighting, air conditioning and electrical appliances when they are not in use can significantly help reduce consumption.
Another measure that can lead to significant savings is the use of renewable energy, such as installing solar panels. Although the initial investment is high, the long-term benefits, both in economic and environmental terms, are very high. Homes that incorporate renewable energy can become energy self-sufficient and can also generate additional income by selling surplus energy to the grid.
Efficient transport: Alternative fuels and low emissions
Transport is one of the sectors that contributes the most to greenhouse gas emissions, and therefore, it is also crucial to improve energy efficiency in this area. Vehicles that run on gas natural They are a real and efficient alternative to gasoline or diesel vehicles.
This option offers tangible economic advantages: for example, with the same budget, a natural gas vehicle can travel up to twice as far as a gasoline one and 56% more than a diesel one. Although natural gas is not a renewable energy source, its environmental impact is significantly lower compared to traditional fuels, making it a transitional solution towards a more energy-efficient future.
Other measures to improve energy efficiency in transport
Adopting efficient driving habits can also make a big difference in fuel consumption:
- Drive moderately, avoiding sudden acceleration and braking.
- Maintain proper tire pressure, as this reduces rolling resistance and therefore fuel consumption.
- Plan your journeys in advance to avoid traffic jams and travel fewer kilometres.
Using public transport instead of private vehicles is also a very important measure. In addition, car sharing reduces both energy consumption and the emission of harmful gases. Finally, walking or cycling is always the most efficient option.
Regulations on energy efficiency
Energy efficiency regulations have made considerable progress in recent years, especially in Europe, which has promoted various directives and regulations to achieve more ambitious goals. One of the most important milestones was the adoption of the European Green Deal in 2019, as part of the EU's decarbonization strategy for 2050.
Along the same lines, the European Parliament has approved stricter targets for 2030, such as a collective reduction in energy consumption by 11,7%. This means that EU countries will have to save an average of 1,5% of energy each year, with measures affecting sectors such as public administration, buildings, businesses, data centres, district heating systems and transport.
In Spain, different royal decrees and strategic plans have been approved that seek to encourage energy efficiency, such as the Royal Decree 18 / 2022 or Energy Saving Certificate System, introduced in 2023, which allows companies to prove their energy savings by issuing certificates.
The implementation of renewable technologies, such as biogas and green hydrogen, is also being encouraged within the energy transition mechanisms. Current legislation prohibits the financing of fossil fuel boilers, starting in 2025. This translates into an increase in the use of clean energy in public and private buildings, and a greater incentive for citizens to invest in energy efficiency.
In addition to European regulations, Spain's autonomous communities are promoting their own energy efficiency support programmes. This includes subsidies for the renovation of buildings with the aim of reducing their primary energy consumption.
It is important that we all stay informed and make use of these opportunities to move towards a more sustainable and economically efficient society.
Energy efficiency improves quality of life, reduces negative impact on the environment and provides economic benefits that help us live more consciously and responsibly.