Householder engagement with energy consumption feedback: the role of community action and communications. (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Burchell, Kevin; Rettie, Ruth; Roberts, Tom C.
• Is Part Of: Energy policy. Volume 88(2016)
• Page Start: 178
• Page End: 186
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: Energy consumption feedback -- Community action -- Long-term engagement -- Behaviour change -- Gender; Energy policy -- Periodicals; Politique énergétique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 333.79
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2015.10.019
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4215

Abstract

Abstract: The provision of energy consumption feedback on in-home displays (IHDs) has a prominent role in government strategies for domestic energy demand reduction. Research suggests that IHDs can support energy consumption reduction, but also that engagement with IHDs can be limited to men and is often short-term. In this paper, we draw on research carried out in Smart Communities, a two-year project in which electricity and gas consumption feedback played a key role. This study was distinctive because it was accompanied by a weekly email communications programme and was provided within the context of community action. Project findings suggest that, although by no means panaceas, approaches such as these can support long-term engagement with energy consumption feedback, including by women, and can support behaviour change. Highlights: We examine the challenge of householder engagement with energy consumption feedback. The potential of 'community action' and 'communications' is explored. These approaches are shown to support long-term engagement by householders. These approaches are also shown to support greater engagement by women. Recommendations for future IHD platforms and smart meter roll-outs are presented.