Learning energy efficiency networks - evidence based experiences from Germany

Learning Energy Efficiency Networks (LEEN) is a concept developed in Switzerland back in the 1990s. Since then, the approach has been successfully transferred to Germany, France and Austria. With these networks, 10 to 15 regionally based companies from different sectors share their energy efficiency experiences in moderated meetings. and the identification of profitable energy efficiency measures in each company. Afterwards the participants decide upon a joint target, which is allocated to the partners according to their efficiency potential. The subsequent networking process enables a continuous exchange on energy efficient solutions fed by the experiences of the network partners as well as external experts. The performance of each company is continuously monitored and controlled on a yearly basis. The network operating period is typically from three to four years. In the 360 participating companies of the publicly funded ""30 Pilot Networks"" project, approximately 3,600 profitable measures were identified, corresponding to an energy saving potential of more than 1,200 GWh per year, and a CO2 emission reduction of nearly half a million tons per year. The average internal rate of return of more than 30% demonstrates the high level of profitability. We will present data acquired in the energy review and monitoring processes of the ""30 Pilot Networks"" project in Germany. In addition, we'll highlight the role of this LEEN management system within the framework of energy efficiency policy, and discuss how the system can be disseminated so as to establish a successful efficiency strategy for industrial companies.