It depends on what process is involved.

Reader comment on: The Jevons Paradox

Submitted by Lyle (United States), Mar 15, 2012 20:45

For example assume you put in a 30% more efficient HVAC system, will you use 30% more energy on hvac? It seems unlikely (normalizing out the weather), likewise with other home efficiency improvements.

On autos to some extent yes, but again it depends on circumstances, I got a new car with 50% better mileage (not a hybrid) than the 2000 pickup I had, but have not increased my mileage by 50%. At some point the demand is satisfied so no more is needed. If the improvement is 50% and the increase is 25% then you're still ahead (which is likely given the figures for a Prius for example).

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