The Effects of Household Characteristics and Energy Use Consciousness on the Effectiveness of Real-Time Energy Use Feedback: A Pilot Study

Daisy Allen and Kathryn Janda, Oberlin College

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Abstract

Much research has been done to date examining the effect of energy feedback information on occupant behavior. The newest type of feedback, “real-time” or continuous energy use monitoring, has become popular through its application in educational and professional settings. This paper investigates whether continuous feedback is effective in a residential setting, and explores the effects of socioeconomic status and household characteristics on conservation practices and energy use consciousness. Ten households were randomly invited from a 60-household survey to receive a digital electricity monitor called The Energy Detective. Drawing on surveys, utility bill records, and semi-structured interviews with these households, we discuss the effectiveness of the monitor in each household. We conclude that the monitors have a greater effect on energy consciousness than on conservation behavior in both high-income and low-income homes. Recommendations are made for a more extensive study involving monitors with downloadable data.