Full definition
Concept structured in France by négaWatt (2003), then recognised by IPCC AR6 WG3 (2022, Demand-side mitigation chapter). Distinguishes 3 levers: sufficiency (reducing needs), efficiency (reducing consumption for a constant service), substitution (replacing with decarbonised sources). In France, the 2022 Energy Sufficiency Plan targeted -10 % energy consumption in 2 years (achieved 12 %). Operational business examples: limiting air conditioning to 26°C, removing non-essential digital uses, reducing business travel and extending equipment use duration. Do not confuse it with energy efficiency (using less per unit of service, an LED versus a halogen lamp) or with degrowth (a more radical, political, overall economic concept).
Also known as
- Sobriété énergétique
- Sufficiency
- Demand reduction