Workshop seeks cooperation on efficiency standards

Cooperation on international standards to promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions was given a boost by a workshop held March 16-17 in Paris, which brought together 290 experts from the public and private sectors. The International Energy Agency (IEA), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) jointly organized the workshop. The meeting confirmed that major players in the energy sector consider international standards essential to support implementation of energy efficiency practices, with attendees confirming their commitment to developing these standards.

The workshop also sought to create an overview of work needed on energy efficiency and allowed technical experts and public sector decision makers to exchange information. In particular, the importance of energy efficiency standardization was emphasized, as well as how it can support carbon emissions reduction by providing internationally agreed upon metrics. Recommendations included promoting the relationship between public policies and technical standards and encouraging participation of all stakeholders from the earliest stages in the standards development process. Check out the full report of conference results and recommendations.