The impact of energy efficiency standards on residential electricity consumption in Mexico

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for residential appliances have been part of the Mexican national energy policy since the early nineties. This study analyzes the impact of MEES on residential electricity consumption and the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions related to refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, televisions and lighting products in Mexico. The paper presents estimated achievements of MEES from 1990 to 2012 and future scenarios until 2030 by implementing stricter MEES based on the best technology available. A replacement technology model was developed to estimate, saved energy and avoided CO2 emissions for different appliances' lifetimes. Considering a 16-year average lifetime of appliances and 80% penetration of efficient lighting technologies, in 2013 energy savings were estimated to be 16.06-TWh (emission reduction of 9.5 Tg CO2). Different scenarios are presented assuming different average lifetimes of appliances as well as an increase in renewable energy sources in electricity production. (C) 2016 International Energy Initiative. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.