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Application of the economic theory of self-control to model energy conservation behavioral change in households

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  • Lundgren, Berndt
  • Schultzberg, Mårten

Abstract

Smart meters and in-house displays hold a promise of energy conservation for those who invest in such technology. Research has shown that households only have a limited interest in such technology and information is thus often neglected, with rather limited energy savings. Surprisingly few empirical investigations have a theoretical foundation that may explain what is going on from a behavioral perspective. In this study the economic theory of self-control is used to model energy-efficient behavior in middle-income households in Sweden. Our results show that different levels of energy-efficient behavior do not really have any impact on the actual consumption levels of electricity. Instead, different beliefs exist of being energy-efficient, but the households do not act accordingly. We recommend to policy makers that the payment time period should be changed to pre-paid electricity to stimulate the monitoring of bills and to introduce a gaming strategy to change incentives for energy conservation.

Suggested Citation

  • Lundgren, Berndt & Schultzberg, Mårten, 2019. "Application of the economic theory of self-control to model energy conservation behavioral change in households," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 183(C), pages 536-546.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:183:y:2019:i:c:p:536-546
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.05.217
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    5. Bożena Gajdzik & Radosław Wolniak & Rafał Nagaj & Brigita Žuromskaitė-Nagaj & Wieslaw Wes Grebski, 2024. "The Influence of the Global Energy Crisis on Energy Efficiency: A Comprehensive Analysis," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(4), pages 1-51, February.
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