Energy efficiency and productive efficiency: some thoughts based on American experience

Journal Article · Thu Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1982 · Energy J.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5547/ISSN0195-6574-EJ-Vol3-No3-1· OSTI ID:7092087

Schurr, S H

Referring to his 1960 book Energy in American Economy, the author notes that the problems of 20 years ago have worsened. A combination of lighter industries and more efficient energy conversion after World War I as well as changes in the composition of energy supply caused energy productivity to increase along with labor and total factor productivity, while energy intensity declined. The impact of electrification and truck transportation changed the structure of manufacturing and production so that energy consumption declined relative to total national output. Although energy productivity has only become a national goal during the last decade, earlier improvements in productive efficiency occurred despite abundant low-cost energy. A review of the historical record suggests that innovative energy-using technologies and energy-supply developments were essential to the process. 9 references. (DCK)

• Research Organization: Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA
• OSTI ID: 7092087
• Journal Information: Energy J.; (United States), Journal Name: Energy J.; (United States) Vol. 3:3; ISSN ENJOD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
291000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Conservation
32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320000 -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
MANUFACTURING
NORTH AMERICA
PRODUCTIVITY
TECHNOLOGY UTILIZATION
USA