КЛАСИФІКАЦІЯ СПОЖИВАЧІВ ЕНЕРГІЇ ЯК ІНСТРУМЕНТ ПІДВИЩЕННЯ ЕНЕРГОЕФЕКТИВНОСТІ: АДАПТАЦІЯ МІЖНАРОДНИХ ПРАКТИК ДЛЯ УКРАЇНИ

This article presents a systematic review of the principal approaches to classifying energy consumers employed worldwide to enhance the efficiency of power‐system management. We examine sector‐based classification, load‐profile segmentation with demand-response potential – shown by NREL studies to improve program effectiveness by 15–20 % – and efficiency-level categorisation (Energy Star, ISO 50001), which can deliver 10–20 % savings within the first years of implementation. We also analyse marketing‐driven segmentation techniques that boost participant engagement by 25–30 %, as well as U.S. case studies of time-of-use tariffs and demand-response schemes that reduce peak demand by 5–10 %. In the Ukrainian context, detailed segmentation is constrained by only ≈ 20 % penetration of advanced metering infrastructure and an uneven industrial structure. Accordingly, we propose a simplified three-tier classification with scope to expand to five categories for finer targeting of tariffs, audits, and support programs. The findings can inform the development of national energy efficiency policies, load forecasting scenarios, differentiated tariff structures, demand-management initiatives, and municipal development strategies. By integrating sectoral, temporal, and efficiency-based classification methods, this framework provides a platform for realising the principle of “energy efficiency first” in Ukraine.