Reflections on Energy Efficiency Policies in Sustainable Transition: Bedrock, Gamechanger, or More of the Same?

ABSTRACT In this study, we analyze how energy efficiency actions, policies, and outcomes are tied to wider socio‐economic and political contexts that are important from a sustainable energy transition perspective. In our two‐part study, we first conduct a bibliometric analysis of 206 publications to identify some of the dominant discourses in the literary construction of energy efficiency actions and outcomes from a sustainable energy transition policy perspective using keywords–energy efficiency, energy policy, sustainable transition, political, conflict, consumption, and equity. Next, we identify and take up five comparatively understudied themes to understand the how and why questions surrounding residential energy efficiency actions, policies, and outcomes for sustainable transition‐(i) efficiency versus consumption; (ii) barriers and conflicts at the individual, household, and institutional levels; (iii) policy processes and heterogeneity; (iv) demonstrable savings versus normative ethics and equity ideals; and (v) public policy and market‐based frameworks. Using a multi‐disciplinary lens, we explore the underlying paradigms, dynamics, synergies, and trade‐offs between different actors, institutions, and situational contexts influencing complex energy efficiency policy processes. We note the role of bargaining, negotiations, and political dynamics as important elements of policy processes that influence adoption, applicability, and jurisdictions of energy efficiency policies. Our study also highlights the need for policies that target absolute energy consumption and careful balancing of socially equitable objectives with economically efficient outcomes in a market‐based framework. We believe that a better understanding and comprehensive discussion of these challenges will inform policymaking and ensure better outcomes.