In the realm of climate action, the announcement of a 35% electrification target by 2035 has sparked both excitement and critical analysis. While the goal of decarbonization through electrification is undoubtedly noble, the chosen metric for measuring progress is a subject of intense debate. The focus on electricity's share of Final Energy, a measure that includes wasted energy, may lead to misguided decisions and fail to incentivize the most efficient technologies. This article delves into the complexities of this metric and proposes alternative approaches that prioritize efficiency and useful energy services. It argues that the 35 by 35 target, while ambitious, needs to be accompanied by more nuanced metrics to ensure a genuine and effective transition towards a sustainable future. The discussion highlights the importance of sectoral penetration targets and the measurement of useful energy, offering a more comprehensive and accurate way to track progress in the fight against climate change.
