Commentary
How appliances have supported a world in lockdown and what this means for energy efficiency
Appliances & equipment
Growth in energy use by household appliances shows no signs of decelerating, yet only one-third of appliance energy use today is covered by mandatory performance standards.
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While energy policies have led to efficiency gains, especially for major household goods such as refrigerators and televisions, small appliances and plug-load devices globally are not aligned with global climate goals.
Consumer electronics, connected devices and other small plug-loads, which are proliferating rapidly, continue to be unregulated in most countries. Expanded policy coverage and increased stringency are needed in all countries.
Consumer electronics, connected devices and other small plug-loads, which are proliferating rapidly, continue to be unregulated in most countries. Expanded policy coverage and increased stringency are needed in all countries.
Last updated Jun 16, 2020
Key findings
Consumption by household appliances and plug loads by region in the Sustainable Development Scenario, 2000-2030
OpenOnly one-third of appliance energy use today is covered by mandatory performance standards
Electricity consumption by household appliances continues to increase. It reached over 3 000 TWh in 2019 and accounted for 15% of global final electricity demand, or one-quarter of electricity used in buildings. Demand is driven by rising ownership of connected plug-load devices, especially in developing countries that are becoming wealthier. Mandatory Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) cover one-third of the energy used, mainly for large household appliances, but smaller plug loads, including consumer electronics, are less well regulated. Greater policy coverage and stringency will be needed to realise the SDS.
