A Study of the Effectiveness of Intervention Programs on Household Energy Consumption

Abstract

An intervention program for residential electricity conservation was done in HDB flats at Hong Kah North, Singapore. Households were divided according to whether and how information about energy conservation was provided. The main differences were: Group 1 (Leaflet), leaflets and stickers were given; Group 2 (Tips), tailored information related to behaviors which households reported they did badly was passed on; and Group 3 (Control), no information about energy conservation was given. The three groups saved 15.8%, 7.1%, 2.7% respectively on average after six months. When comparing the self-reported behavior scores, Group 2 was found with most positive behavior changes (the frequency of pro-environmental behaviors increased). Openness to change and traditional family values were positively correlated to pro-environmental behaviors; no values but demographic variables, including number of people living in, floor area and air-conditioner possession, were positively correlated to actual electricity consumption. Households living in larger apartments provided with information on energy conservation were found to save more percentage of electricity. Finally, recommendations for interventions, such as easiness of behaviors and emphasis on money saving, based on households? feedback were provided.