Energy-related intervention success factors: a literature review

Diana Uitdenbogerd, Wageningen University, The Netherlands
Cees Egmond, SenterNovem, The Netherlands
Ruud Jonkers, Rescon, The Netherlands
Gerjo Kok, Maastricht University, The Netherlands

Keywords

energy related behaviour, determinants, interventions

Abstract

Since the introduction of the Energy Performance for Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the Energy Service Directive (ESD), influencing the energy related behaviour of households is on the policy agenda of the Dutch government. Therefore, the Ministry of Housing commissioned a review study of all relevant literature in the field of energy conservation and consumer behaviour. In total, 2000 references in 37 articles and books were reviewed.

We approached this body of knowledge using the framework of the Intervention Mapping Protocol developed in the health promotion field. This protocol has an applied social-psychological basis and works as follows: developing an intervention that influences behaviour depends on knowing the determinants of that behaviour, and knowing what methods or instruments effectively influence those determinants to stimulate such a change. Based on an analysis of the literature we present:

(1) An analysis of the energy relevant investment behaviour, normal household energy related behaviour and specific energy conservation behaviour.

(2) An analysis of the strongest determinants of behaviour, both internal and external. The strongest internal determinants are knowledge about choices and costs, comfort, visibility and status. Secondary determinants include motivation and attitude related to energy saving. The strongest external determinants are possibility of choice, income, age, type of household and social comparison.

(3) The most effective instruments and their prerequisites include comparison feedback, tailored advice and incentives.

We conclude with a list of critical success-factors, regarding communicative aspects, financial aspects, conditions for implementing parties and preferences of households