Energy conservation actions can be economically rational responses to the energy crisis. But these actions may be hindered by social and institutional barriers. The nature of these barriers is explored and a taxonomy of barriers is proposed. Results of a series of interviews providing examples of the different types of barriers are reported. Strategies for overcoming barriers are examined and some criteria for evaluating such strategies are developed. The importance of considering not only the efficiency of strategies in achieving the goal of energy conservation, but also their impacts on others, possibly competing, social and economic goals is emphasized. The need for both increased efforts aimed at overcoming barriers and further research into the nature of barriers and further research into the nature of barriers is discussed. I • J This report was done with support from the Department of Energy. Any conclusions or opinions expressed in this report represent solely those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of The Regents of the University of California, the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory or the Department of Energy. Reference to a company or product name does not imply approval or recommendation of the product by the University of California or the U.S. Department of Energy to the exclusion of others that may be suitable.

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