(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2010-02)
Brown, Marilyn A.; Cortes, Rodrigo; Cox, Matthew
In an increasingly resource-constrained world, improving the energy efficiency of
industry is essential. In addition to its environmental, security, and
competitiveness benefits, energy efficiency delivers a return on investment that
contributes to the profitability of enterprises. Using international technology and
policy benchmarking, this chapter examines the energy productivity of U.S.
industry and its role as a technology innovator, supplying next-generation green
and clean technologies. After reviewing the barriers and drivers of improved
practices, the chapter concludes that the dual goals of advancing energy
efficiency at industrial plants and advancing product innovation are critical to
promoting the more productive consumption of energy in a resource-constrained
world.