ENERGY EFFICIENCY, SUSTAINABILITY AND THE SINGAPOREAN HOUSEHOLD � A STUDY OF BEHAVIOURAL DETERMINANTS

Abstract

Sustainability is a hot topic in the built environment. Apart from the perspective of sustainable infrastructures, a component seldom discussed is the behavioural aspect of final consumers (households) towards sustainability. To contribute towards sustainability, one characteristic households and individuals should possess is an energy efficient behaviour. In Singapore, infrastructures and policies are carried out extensively to encourage such behaviour. However, the behaviour of households are undefined and it is ultimately up to households to carry out the encouraged deed. This thesis empirically examined the different determinants influencing energy efficient behaviour in households. Furthermore, their perceptions towards smart home technologies were explored as an alternate strategy to encourage energy efficient behaviour, besides the conventional interventions. A survey was conducted with 250 respondents to garner their behavioural insights and opinions on energy efficient behaviour. From the results, a relatively homogeneous energy efficient behaviour and acceptance level towards smart home technologies were observed. Respondents had positive attitude and adequate knowledge towards being energy efficient, however, their practices and habits fell short. Inconvenience and the disruption of comfortability were found to be the main reasons for poor habits and practices. Ways to improve energy efficient behaviour, such as a combination of interventions tailored for different age groups, were recommended. It was also realised that the level of acceptance towards smart home technologies were positive and smart home technologies were found to be another way to improve energy efficient behaviour. Therefore, households’ energy efficient behaviour can be improved to ensure sustainability among households, through combined tailored interventions by age groups and smart home technologies.