Here at Greenlite, we welcome news that Philips Lighting Chief Executive Eric Rondolat has issued an ultimatum; world leaders must double annual energy efficiency improvement rates by 2030.

The next meeting of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP21) in Paris is just two months away.

There, global leaders will seek new international climate agreement, applicable to all countries. Their aim is keeping global warming below 2°C.

As the conference nears, business leaders are lobbying the politicians. They are seeking to influence new legislation, to truly tackle climate change. Agreement on this at COP21 could catalyse energy efficiency technologies, providing solutions, sustainability and jobs into the future.

What does Eric Rondolat want at Paris?

At Greenlite, we endorse Rondolat's calls for pacier targets on energy efficiency. Reported here, his calls seek; 'Bold targets to boost the global energy efficiency rate from the current 1.3 per cent to three per cent per year by 2030.'

The Philips Chief believes a three per cent rate is achievable using existing technology; LEDs, smart meters and insulation. He has voiced irritation at the current speed of improvement.

Rondolat's objections are simple; he feels reducing demand is being overlooked at the altar of new, low carbon tech. New tech may be exciting, but it shouldn't be prioritised over the simple option of turning down or using smarter. The technologies for doing this are present, proven and affordable, with no lead in time or risk.

"Moving to three per cent is something that we can do, the technologies are there. Energy is there. Willingness is there," he has said.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) agrees

Last year, the IEA estimated the global energy efficiency market is worth at least USD 310 billion a year; £210 billion. IEA is calling energy efficiency the world's 'first fuel,' but still, reticence is holding back the sector's potential.

According to IEA, energy efficiency investments over the past four decades have avoided more energy consumption than the total final consumption of the European Union in 2011.

“Energy efficiency is the invisible powerhouse in IEA countries and beyond, working behind the scenes to improve our energy security, lower our energy bills and move us closer to reaching our climate goals,” IEA Executive Director Maria van der Hoeven has commented.

Here at Greenlite, we are proud to be a part of this coming revolution, but recognise hard work is needed. Our lighting design, finance and installation services are here to help realise the new world both Philips and the IEA are seeking.

UK Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS)

At home, ESOS is set to catalyse a wave of business efficiency work. Its deadlines kick in on December 5, 2015.

Greenlite wants to make clear that both leading to and after this point, we are keen to help the thousands of UK firms who will be embedding the retrofit, smart and LED lighting improvements ESOS audits will recommend.

This is a great, homegrown example of how energy efficiency really is winning. But, as far as we're concerned, further advocacy for efficiency at the highest level can never be a bad thing.

We welcome Philips' approach, and wholeheartedly endorse tomorrow's green efficiency revolution. We believe UK politicians should stand up for efficiency at Paris too. We are ready to provide on the ground support to deliver the overarching lead they can provide.