User-centred improvements to energy efficiency products and renewable energy systems: research on household adoption and use

Caird, Sally and Roy, Robin (2008). User-centred improvements to energy efficiency products and renewable energy systems: research on household adoption and use. International Journal of Innovation Management, 12(3) pp. 327–355.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1142/S1363919608002072

Abstract

The development and rapid consumer adoption of energy efficiency products and renewable energy systems are key elements of the UK and the EU carbon reduction strategies to
meet the challenge of climate change. Many such technologies are available for domestic use, but despite government incentives to meet carbon reduction targets consumer adoption has been slow. This Open University research with 111 in-depth interviews plus an on-line
survey with nearly 400 responses, investigates consumer adoption, non-adoption and use of these technologies. Results show that it is important to research consumer use experiences, problems and requirements when designing and developing “green” technologies. With results tailored to each technology, this study shows that user-centred improvements are required to improve functionality, ergonomics, inter-connectedness with other systems
and symbolic value, and to reduce cost and payback. User-centred research supports new product/system design and development to promote more rapid adoption and carbon-saving
use of energy efficient and renewable technologies in homes.

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