The benefits of energy efficiency programs - comparing Germany with South Africa

Over the past two decades the world has become much more conscious of the disadvantages of rampant energy use. To this end many countries have adopted strategies and policies meant to reduce their energy usage and consequently reduce their global energy footprint. The German government is often praised for its stance on reducing energy usage. Therefore, this paper will explore the energy efficiency strategy implemented by the German government. The paper will also explore the current energy efficiency strategies implemented by the South African government and industry as well as the results thereof. This should allow for a comparison of whether the current South African policies compare favourably to that of a first world country that is serious about energy efficiency. From this comparison it is obvious that the South African energy efficiency policy strategy compares favourably.