GHG Emissions and Energy Efficiency Potential in the Building Sector of Malaysia

This paper briefly provides an overview of the sectoral energy demand and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Malaysia. The paper also highlights the potentials of GHG reduction by implementing energy efficiency in the building sector. Malaysiaʹs total demand of energy increased from 1,244 Petajoules (PJ) in 2000 to 1,631.7 PJ in 2005. Commercial and residential buildings, alone, account for about 13% of total energy consumption and 48% of electricity consumption. The escalating consumption of energy that heavily relied on fossil fuels had resultant significant increment in emission of GHG (mainly carbon dioxide) from the sector. Over the years, GHG emissions have been increasing in Malaysia. In 2000, the total CO2 emission from energy sector is 118,806 kilotonne. Per capita emission rose from 4.21 tonnes in 1994 to 6.29 tonnes in 2001. A significant share of these emissions can be avoided cost effectively through improved energy efficiency, while providing the same or higher level of energy services. In this regard, greater use of energy efficient technologies or options and behavioral changes can substantially reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the building sector. The paper shows that Malaysia has a strong need and great potential to apply EE strategies to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions in buildings and construction