“Energy efficiency is the world’s ‘first fuel’ and the main route to net zero”.

Echoing the statement by Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, energy efficiency is once again expected to play a significant role in the discussions at COP29 in Baku. Building on commitments made at last year’s COP28, global leaders are anticipated to push for a doubling of energy efficiency improvements by 2030, alongside tripling renewable energy capacity. These goals align with the broader ambition to limit global warming to 1.5°C, a key objective under the Paris Agreement. The COP29 agenda will likely emphasise actionable steps to enhance energy efficiency, especially as it is considered essential for a sustainable and resilient energy transition. Energy efficiency is similarly a critical component of providing healthy buildings that are good for people and the world in which we live.

Achieving these efficiency targets will require coordinated policies across sectors, substantial investments and increased support for emerging economies where funding and technology access remain challenging.

Energy efficiency as a tool to decarbonise buildings and industries

Denmark heads to COP29 with a mission to prove that energy efficiency is one of the easiest ways to eliminate energy waste, lower energy costs and reduce the use of fossil fuels. 

Since the 1970s, Denmark has developed significant expertise in energy efficiency with a focus on industry, surplus heat, district heating and efficiency of buildings.  

Having set an ambitious goal to cut down its greenhouse gas emissions by a 70 percent reduction by2030, energy efficiency plays a crucial part in Denmark’s effort to reach its climate targets. This is embodied by the Danish climate partnership on construction, which has delivered 63 proposals on how to cut emissions by 5.8 million tonnes annually by 2030 within Denmark’s construction sector.

Today, Denmark boasts a comprehensive regulatory framework for energy efficiency, featuring a strict building code, energy labelling and public-private partnerships.

Meet energy efficiency experts at Denmark Pavilion at COP29

Connect with solution providers driving the energy efficiency agenda at The Denmark Pavilion at COP29.

Energy efficiency will be highlighted during COP29’s official theme days. On 15 November, as part of the “Energy / Peace, Relief, and Recovery” theme, several talks will discuss the role of energy in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the shift to sustainable energy systems, including efficiency improvements across sectors. Additionally, 20 November will focus on “Urbanisation / Transport / Tourism,” addressing energy efficiency in buildings.

At the Denmark Pavilion, energy efficiency will also feature in several discussions. For instance, on Wednesday 13 November, VELUX, Kompas VC, and Urban Partners will host a session on “Decarbonising Our Building Stock: Setting the Right Framework to Drive Uptake.”

See the full programme for the Denmark Pavillion and read more about Denmark at COP29