MILWAUKEE - Despite a global recession, investment levels in energy efficiency have remained strong, according to a survey conducted by Johnson Controls.

The company surveyed more than 2,800 executives and managers responsible for making investments and managing energy in commercial buildings worldwide, and released the results in an Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI) report. According to survey respondents, 56 percent say they have invested the same or more in energy efficiency over the last 12 months. A regional comparison indicates that respondents have invested the same or more in energy efficiency in China (60 percent), followed by the United States (59 percent), Europe (55 percent), and India (45 percent).

“These survey results indicate the growing importance on having energy-efficient buildings that are cost effective and sustainable,” said Dave Myers, president of building efficiency for Johnson Controls.

Johnson Controls has conducted the EEI survey in North America for the last four years. This year marks the first time a global survey has been conducted across Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Across all regions surveyed, energy management is considered an important priority among commercial decision-makers (92 percent). Notably, respondents from India (85 percent) and China (80 percent) were more likely to consider energy management very or extremely important as compared to those in Europe (55 percent) and North America (53 percent).

“Despite the recession, decision-makers have put efficiency high on their agendas for 2010, especially those in India and China,” said Clay Nesler, vice president of global energy and sustainability for Johnson Controls. “It’s encouraging to see that the financial returns and environmental benefits of energy efficiency investments are recognized in all regions around the world.”

While motivations differ from region to region, cost savings is consistently the most important factor driving investments with 97 percent of respondents identifying it as significant. “It comes as no surprise that global business leaders are looking for responsible ways to cut energy costs. On average, the survey found that decision-makers expect a 9 percent energy price increase over the next year,” Nesler said. Eighty-eight percent of respondents believe energy prices will rise in China, compared with 79 percent in India, 68 percent in Europe, and 64 percent in North America.

After cost savings, lowering greenhouse gas emissions (74 percent) is the second most important motivator for energy efficiency in all regions except North America, where boosting public image (63 percent) and taking advantage of government/utility incentives (62 percent) rank higher in importance.

Globally, 63 percent of respondents plan to make capital investments in energy efficiency and 70 percent plan operating budget expenditures in efficiency programs over the next 12 months. Eighty-five percent plan to make efficiency a priority in their new construction and retrofit projects.

Publication date:06/21/2010