Potential for fuel conservation

Quantitative assessment of the potential for fuel conservation in the near and long term is discussed in the framework of technical possibility and needed changes in policies. The second law of thermodynamics is used to determine available work rather than the usual first law measurement of efficiency because the available work concept includes both quantity and quality considerations. Projected Btu savings in residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation sectors indicate a total potential savings of 31.10 (10/sup 15/ Btu) over 1973 by 1985. Second law efficiencies are calculated for automobiles, temperature control, steam production, and commercial lighting to indicate where modifications and new methods could realize 60 percent of that savings. Research opportunities for all sectors are broken down into areas of basic research needs, improvements in devices and materials, diagnostic instrumentation, and systems analysis. A program of zero energy growth is not required if a life-cycle-cost approach is used to justify investments in fuel-saving technology. If the public is kept informed on energy-related developments and new financing arrangements are made for fuel conservation purchases, energy policy can shift from an emphasis on fuel supply toward fuel conservation, which is less costly and more likely to provide short-term results. 11 references.more » (DCK)« less