A Review of Patents on Energy Efficiency Based on Sector Classification and Energy Form Conserved

The present review provides an overview of patents on existing energy efficient techniques and forms of energy conserved in the industrial, residential, commercial, and transportation sectors. The patents cover novel techniques and alternative methods toward better technology. The majority of the patents related to better energy efficiency are found in the industrial sector. A trend study on the number of patents issued related to energy efficiency and the energy form conserved, in the above-mentioned sectors, showed a gradual increase from 1989 that peaked between 2000 and 2009. This study also shows that significant research efforts are being done toward achieving the goal of sustainable energy-efficient technologies and products.