18 February 2024 | Bożena Gajdzik, Radosław Wolniak, Rafał Nagaj, Brigita Žuromskaitė-Nagaj and Wiesław Wes Grebski
The global energy crisis, triggered by the post-pandemic economic recovery and intensified by the 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict, has significantly influenced energy efficiency (EE) strategies. Natural gas and electricity prices have surged, leading to higher inflation and economic challenges, while also accelerating the adoption of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. This crisis mirrors the 1970s oil crisis, prompting advancements in energy efficiency. The paper explores the complex relationship between energy awareness, consumption patterns, and EE, focusing on both individuals and industries. It emphasizes the role of industries in energy-saving efforts and the active role of consumers in the energy market. The study uses a systematic literature review, analyzing publications from 2022–2023, to evaluate the impact of the energy crisis on EE. Key findings include the importance of energy efficiency in reducing carbon emissions, improving energy security, and supporting climate goals. The paper highlights the need for comprehensive policies that integrate energy-saving criteria into product development and corporate social responsibility. It also discusses the challenges in implementing EE, such as financial barriers, information gaps, and policy inconsistencies. The study underscores the significance of energy awareness in driving sustainable energy practices and the role of prosumers in promoting energy efficiency. The paper concludes that energy efficiency is a critical component of the transition to a low-carbon economy, requiring coordinated efforts across sectors and stakeholders.The global energy crisis, triggered by the post-pandemic economic recovery and intensified by the 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict, has significantly influenced energy efficiency (EE) strategies. Natural gas and electricity prices have surged, leading to higher inflation and economic challenges, while also accelerating the adoption of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. This crisis mirrors the 1970s oil crisis, prompting advancements in energy efficiency. The paper explores the complex relationship between energy awareness, consumption patterns, and EE, focusing on both individuals and industries. It emphasizes the role of industries in energy-saving efforts and the active role of consumers in the energy market. The study uses a systematic literature review, analyzing publications from 2022–2023, to evaluate the impact of the energy crisis on EE. Key findings include the importance of energy efficiency in reducing carbon emissions, improving energy security, and supporting climate goals. The paper highlights the need for comprehensive policies that integrate energy-saving criteria into product development and corporate social responsibility. It also discusses the challenges in implementing EE, such as financial barriers, information gaps, and policy inconsistencies. The study underscores the significance of energy awareness in driving sustainable energy practices and the role of prosumers in promoting energy efficiency. The paper concludes that energy efficiency is a critical component of the transition to a low-carbon economy, requiring coordinated efforts across sectors and stakeholders.