Development of the Taiwan city index: localizing metrics to evaluate cities in Taiwan

Panel: 3. Local action

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
David Ribeiro, ACEEE, Utilities, State, and Local Policy Program, USA
Ariel Drehobl, ACEEE, USA
Chia-miao Liu, Industrial Research Institute of Taiwan (ITRI), Taiwan
Chih-Chiang, Zack Hsieh, Industrial Research Institute of Taiwan (ITRI), Taiwan

Abstract

Local governments throughout the world can take action to lead on energy efficiency. Those that do make their communities better, stronger, and more resilient. Comparing the efficiency initiatives of different local governments can help identify those who are leading on energy efficiency and those with room to do more. This benchmarking process also uncovers best practices in policy development and implementation, as well as general lessons learned.

This paper will describe a collaboration between partners in the United States and Taiwan to create a set of metrics to evaluate the efficiency efforts of Taiwanese cities. Previously, the US partner developed a comprehensive methodology to benchmark the efficiency activities of local governments in the United States. This biennial benchmarking effort captures trends in local policy development and provides actionable guidance for local government seeking to prioritize efficiency. Just as this city benchmarking has been valuable for US cities, a similar initiative for Taiwanese cities would yield similar benefits.

The research will capture the procedures we used to localize the US metrics to the Taiwanese context. It will also discuss the research findings that impacted our decisions to adjust the methodology and metrics. We will discuss differences in the electric utility landscape, local government capacity to act, and efficiency policies. Not only will the audience learn more about this research endeavor, but they will gain a better understanding of how metrics can be localized to fit their local context. By outlining the process of localizing metrics, this could serve as guidance for others considering how to locally benchmark energy efficiency efforts.