Energy+ Country Performance Ratings, 2001-2010

Abstract

This paper introduces ƐCPR, country performance ratings that support Norway’s Energy initiative by monitoring the progress of 153 countries in reducing the CO2 emissions intensity of energy consumption. It develops annual ƐCPR ratings for the period from 2001 to 2010.

Analysis reveals a diverse set of transition patterns at the country and regional levels. Some major emitters have been consistently red during the past decade, some have been consistently green, and others have improved from red to yellow or green. In a similar vein, high-, middle- and low-income countries all exhibit very diverse ƐCPR ratings. Overall the results are hopeful, with a particularly notable decline in red ratings. During the past few years, over 70% of the 153 rated countries have exceeded their transition path benchmarks, and around 40% have exceeded their rigorous Energy benchmarks.

The challenge will grow in the coming decade, as countries’ transition and Energy benchmarks continue to fall. Future updates of ƐCPR will provide a consistent basis for judging how far we have come, how far we have to go, and which developing countries need additional assistance to achieve green status

Keywords: climate change, greenhouse gas, conservation

JEL Classification: Q54, Q56, Q57