A generalized Fisher index approach to energy decomposition analysis

We fill a gap in index decomposition analysis (IDA) methodology by extending the conventional two-factor Fisher index decomposition approach to n factors to complement an existing additive decomposition approach. Derived using a different route, the resulting formula is found to be similar to that proposed by Seigel [J. Am. Stat. Assoc. 40 (1945) 520-523]. The proposed approach possesses some desirable properties and may be preferred in some situations in energy studies. However, its formula is relatively complex compared to other commonly adopted IDA approaches. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.