Implementation of energy-conservation policies: the case of electric heating conversion in Denmark

This article analyses which kinds of public planning, regulation and initiatives are suitable for the implementation of energy-conservation policies. The policies are important elements of the Danish plans for implementing CO2-reduction targets. The plans are characterised by a move away from energy systems, based on large power stations and large gas and oil extraction systems, to far more decentralised systems based on energy efficiency at the individual places of consumption and renewable energy systems adapted to local conditions. This change demands not only technical modifications, but also large, organisational changes, which will often entail the establishment of completely new organisations. The nature and complexity of the needed technological changes call for public regulation instruments of the same nature, i.e. numerous, differentiated and multi-purpose. In the case of electric-heating conversion, such public regulation so far has managed to achieve CO2 reductions together with the creation of 150 jobs. In the near future, more than 1000 permanent jobs can be created without negative consequences for the balance-of-payment. The same kind of job creation is possible in most other European countries.