Households’ Electrical Energy Conservation and Management: An Ecological Break-Through, or the Same Old Consumption-Growth Path?

Abstract

We examine the motivations behind the electrical energy conservation and smart management at households to verify whether we are observing an ecological breakthrough, or a mere continuation of the well-trodden consumption-growth path. We conducted an online survey in France, Spain, Italy, and Denmark (n = 3200) on the subject of electricity use and generation. We utilized a generalized structural equation model to simultaneously test the direct reasons behind different energy-use behaviors and intentions, as well as their motivating factors. Measures to conserve electrical energy and install renewable energy equipment are not solely driven by ecological concerns; a crucial role is played by openness to new technologies, which correlates with high financial status. Saving electrical energy and new-tech eagerness go hand-in-hand with attachment to consumption and comfort. Social environment is relevant, as it allows users to converse about electricity saving with friends, and to observe their habits. Individuals may aim not to consume less energy, but to enhance their standards of living by economizing energy to fund other purchases, which limits the reduction in carbon footprint. Increasing the popularity of energy-saving solutions, therefore, might prove insufficient in the face of environmental threats and the challenges of transforming the energy market.

Energy Conservation at Home: A Critical Review on the Role of End-User Behavior

“…In addition, other scholars discuss how social comparison, competition among peers, and goal setting for energy conservation can become more effective means to mobilize the potential for households' energy transition at home [75][76][77][78][79]. Contrasting opinions emerge also on this point: while Schneider et al illustrate the role of individual energy coaches for this purpose [80], Jorgensen et al argue that group-targeted interventions are more successful than individualistic approaches [81].…”

Effectiveness of Electricity-Saving Communication Campaigns: Neurophysiological Approach

“…Many studies have indicated that promoting energy saving can significantly reduce the amount of energy wasted (e.g., [11][12][13][14][15][16][17]). This is important in the context of pursuing the ambitious strategies and goals set out in the Kyoto Protocol (1997), the Paris Agreement (2015), and, most recently, at the COP26 Climate Summit in Glasgow (2021), which, in turn, reduces the risk of dangerous effects of climate destabilization [18,19].…”

“…Many studies have confirmed that changing human behavior has a large impact on energy saving and environmental sustainability (e.g., [19,[28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35][36]). However, they explained that various obstacles increase energy efficiency [37] and proved that traditional media campaigns that promote pro-ecological knowledge and attitudes through simple dissemination of information often do not bring a lasting change in behavior [23,38,39].…”

Determinants of Employee Electricity Saving Behavior in Small Firms: The Role of Benefits and Leadership

“…The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26) remarks that there must be a commitment to systemic change and net zero emissions should be a part of business principles and operation [15]. Despite a high level of consumption of energy by business, studies on energy conservation have tended to focus on individuals at home [16,17]. However, the results of the studies that focus on household energy conservation at home may not be generalised to the business context [18].…”