The question of energy reduction: The problem(s) with feedback

Abstract

We provide a comprehensive critique of feedback and in-home-displays (IHDs). We find limited evidence of the efficacy of feedback in reducing energy consumption. Problematically the success of IHDs depends entirely on user engagement. The unintended consequence of IHDs may undermine their energy reduction capabilities. We call for new IHDs to be developed and evaluated with user engagement in mind. a b s t r a c tWith smart metering initiatives gaining increasing global popularity, the present paper seeks to challenge the increasingly entrenched view that providing householders with feedback about their energy usage, via an inhome-display, will lead them to substantially reduce their energy consumption. Specifically, we draw on existing quantitative and qualitative evidence to outline three key problems with feedback, namely: (a) the limited evidence of efficacy, (b) the need for user engagement, and (c) the potential for unintended consequences. We conclude by noting that, in their current form, existing in-home-displays may not induce the desired energy-reduction response anticipated by smart metering initiatives. Instead, if smart metering is to effectively reduce energy consumption there is a clear need to develop and test innovative new feedback devices that have been designed with user engagement in mind.

Householder engagement with energy consumption feedback: the role of community action and communications

“…: Grønhøj and Thøgersen, 2011;Hargreaves et al, 2010;2013;Oltra et al, 2014;Strengers, 2011;2013;Rettie et al, 2013;van Dam et al, 2010; also see Buchanan et al, 2014). However, these studies also note a number of constraints on the impacts of IHDs.…”

The Impact of Eco-Feedback on Energy Consumption Behavior: A Cross-Cultural Study

“…When studying the effectiveness of in-home-displays, a typical type of ecofeedback system, Van Dam et al [14] argued that "a onesize-fits-all approach for in-home-displays cannot be justified", which highlights that the performance of ecofeedback systems is dependent on the characteristics of the users. In fact, it has been reported that not all consumers have the potential of saving energy consumption by using eco-feedback system [15]. Therefore, to make eco-feedback systems work, it is necessary to consider the characteristics of their users, for instance, their cultural background, and to provide a certain level of customization.…”

Energy monitoring as a practice: Investigating use of the iMeasure online energy feedback tool

“…Alahmad et al, 2012;Buchanan et al, 2015Buchanan et al, , 2014Faruqui et al, 2010;Hargreaves et al, 2013Hargreaves et al, , 2010McKerracher and Torriti, 2013;Wood and Newborough, 2007). But in exploring quantitative energy feedback, there has been relatively little research on non-automated energy feedback, which can require personal input of data.…”

“…Many of these, at least in part, draw on insights from the theories of practice literature (e.g. Buchanan et al, 2015Buchanan et al, , 2014Burchell et al, 2014;Ellegård and Palm, 2011;Hargreaves et al, 2013Hargreaves et al, , 2010Strengers, 2011). According to Shove et al (2012), a practice consists of three interconnected elements: materials (tangible items needed to perform a practice, such as technologies); meanings (social significance of performing a practice); and competences (skills, knowledges and understandings required to perform a practice).…”