A survey analysis of energy saving activities of industrial companies in Hyogo, Japan

This paper seeks to measure industrial energy saving activities (ESAs) and identify their determinant factors via an empirical study of companies in Hyogo, Japan. The surveyed companies exhibit high participation ratios in the pre-listed ESAs, especially those related to managerial measures. The classified factors are partly confirmed by econometric analysis. Whereas external pressures do not appear to alter the level of involvement of a company in ESAs, internal factors show a significant and positive influence. These findings point to the need for higher levels of support for industry as a whole from policy makers and industrial associations, to enhance energy saving practices within industry. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.