The efficient use of energy resources and energy efficiency

Energy efficiency should be ensured in all stages and processes from power production to consumption. The existence of a legislative framework, programmes and targets, standards and norms, awareness-raising, the application of energy efficiency tools, access to technological innovations, the application of modern management principles and incentive measures are the main factors for ensuring this energy efficiency.

First of all, the Ministry of Energy takes measures to develop the legislative base. The draft law of the Republic of Azerbaijan ‘On the Efficient Use of Energy Resources and Energy Efficiency’ was developed with the support of the Energy Charter within the framework of the EU4Energy programme, established in 2016 by the European Union.

The law contains the application of the most effective instruments in the field of energy efficiency and the basic principles of state policy in this area. The project reflected measures related to state management and regulation in the field of energy efficiency.

If the law is adopted, issues such as the implementation of an energy audit, the application of energy management standards and the development of the market of energy efficiency services in Azerbaijan will be solved.

Since 2019, within the framework of the EU4Energy programme of European Union, the development of the National Action Plan on Energy Efficiency with the International Energy Charter has been started. In addition, a draft review of Azerbaijan's energy efficiency policy was made by the Energy Charter and submitted to the Ministry of Energy.

At present, the issue of supporting the development of secondary legislative acts is being discussed with international organisations.

Along with the development of the legislative and regulatory environment, practical steps are being taken to ensure efficiency in the energy production and supply chain. The development of new production capacities meeting modern requirements in the energy system, a reduction of losses in transmission and distribution systems and the achievement of efficiency through the restoration and reconstruction of the current energy production capacity are parts of these steps.

It is important to contribute to energy efficiency not only with public authorities, but also with consumers. The most important thing is to create behaviour changes to ensure that consumers are more sensitive and attentive to the use of energy. Efficiency in energy consumption has a positive impact on the economic development of a country, and on the reduction of the energy costs of consumers. The development of new power production capacities and the improvement of power transmission and distribution networks require a lot of investment. By ensuring efficiency, the need for this work will be eliminated. At the same time, by saving energy resources aimed at domestic demand, export potential can be increased, which is an additional contribution to the development of the country’s economy.

The energy consumption of the population includes lighting, heating and cooling, electric household appliances and vehicles. Energy consumption can be significantly reduced by using more efficient lighting means and household appliances with a high energy efficiency class, by insulating buildings to reduce energy losses, as well as taking into account saving measures while using devices and lamps.

Azerbaijan cooperates with developed and technologically advanced countries, exchanging experience and information. Such measures can provide access to energy efficiency and clean energy in Azerbaijan.

By uniting the energy industry with technological developments, we can solve energy and environmental problems, reduce greenhouse gases, eliminate the consequences of climate change and provide everyone with access to sustainable, reliable and affordable energy.