Rationale - what it means and why it is an important measure
This indicator measures the average annual consumption of electricity per person. Electricity consumption impacts air quality and greenhouse gas emissions.
How it is compiled, what data are needed
Annual electricity use per capita, in gigawatt hours.
Measurements and units
Electricity use per capita (GWh/person/year)
Possible temporal and spatial format
graphs, trend charts
Reference to methodology resources
OECD, 1997. Better Understanding Our Cities: The Role of Urban Indicators, EEA Indicator Set.
WB, Development Data Group, 1999. World Development Indicators 1999 on CD-ROM. World Bank Publications, USA.
Objective
To reduce overall energy consumption.
Targets, benchmarks, reference values
No related international standards.
References to examples of application
The Regional Municipality of Hamilton-Wentworth, 1996, http://www.vision2020.hamilton-went.on.ca/indicators/98report
Other comments / background
Electricity is often produced through the burning of fossil fuels, or the harnessing of hydroelectric power. Electricity generation produces emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) on its own, but the burning of fossil fuels is an additional source of CO2. By reducing the amount of electricity that we consume, we can reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and help stop global warming. Limitations: Measuring electricity is only one part of determining energy efficiency. Including figures for the consumption of fossil fuel would provide a more complete picture.
