Energy statistics uses concepts and terminology which are often different from those used in economic statistics. There is a need to identify conceptual and terminological differences and ensure that a bridge between the two approaches is developed. The main differences to be addressed consist of the following:
- Use of the territory principles in energy statistics and the residence principle in energy accounts
- Definitions of transactions (e.g. supply, imports and exports are defined differently)
- Energy accounts present information by economic activity, energy balances by technology. As a result the energy and transformation sectors are not defined in terms of ISIC divisions but in terms of technology used
- There exist various definitions and classifications of energy products. At the highest level, it would be useful to have an agreement on the definitions and classifications of energy products as well as their correspondence with CPC and HS. The classification of energy products should also include renewable energy and be disaggregated by purpose (for energy purposes or other purposes).