WHY ‘REBOUND EFFECTS’ MAY CUT ENERGY SAVINGS IN HALF

The rebound effect occurs when the savings from energy efficiency are counteracted by changes in the consumer's behaviour.

On a basic level it can be direct (washing more loads because you purchased an energy efficient washing machine) or indirect (spending the money saved on bills on a transport for a vacation). These are both examples of an often-overlooked phenomenon called "Rebounding", this undermines attempts to tackle climate change. When someone invests in new energy-efficient technology it may seem that there is a lot of energy saved – but there may not be any saving at all.

Infact, it could increase energy consumption. We need to take into account the human factor: when applied, the potential improvements in energy efficiency will motivate a change in behaviour towards increased use.

For example, the cost of lighting reduces so we choose to light up bigger spaces. The consequence: the earnings made by energy efficient technology is cancelled out by changed behaviour, and the net energy consumption could paradoxically end up being greater. The importance of improved energy efficiency, to deliver economic benefits alongside real energy savings is indisputable.

However, we do need to have concerns about the current realism of the global climate scenario. Our product “FORCE” is designed to reduce the consumption of electricity (and in turn its production), and thereby contribute to reductions in carbon dioxide emission. It will be able to reduce your electricity bills but that is only one side of the coin, it undermines the effort we could make towards saving the environment.

Let us aim to get the complete benefit of higher-efficiency equipment by having a more holistic approach towards saving energy. The less you burn, the more you earn!