Public perceptions of demand-side management and a smarter energy future

Spence, Alexa, Demski, Christina ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9215-452X, Butler, Catherine, Parkhill, Karen and Pidgeon, Nick ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8991-0398 2015. Public perceptions of demand-side management and a smarter energy future. Nature Climate Change 5 , pp. 550-554. 10.1038/nclimate2610

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Abstract

Demand-side management (DSM) is a key aspect of many future energy system scenarios1, 2. DSM refers to a range of technologies and interventions designed to create greater efficiency and flexibility on the demand-side of the energy system3. Examples include the provision of more information to users to support efficient behaviour and new ‘smart’ technologies that can be automatically controlled. Key stated outcomes of implementing DSM are benefits for consumers, such as cost savings3, 4 and greater control over energy use. Here, we use results from an online survey to examine public perceptions and acceptability of a range of current DSM possibilities in a representative sample of the British population (N = 2,441). We show that, although cost is likely to be a significant reason for many people to take up DSM measures, those concerned about energy costs are actually less likely to accept DSM. Notably, individuals concerned about climate change are more likely to be accepting. A significant proportion of people, particularly those concerned about affordability, indicated unwillingness or concerns about sharing energy data, a necessity for many forms of DSM. We conclude substantial public engagement and further policy development is required for widespread DSM implementation.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Publisher:	Nature Research
ISSN:	1758-678X
Funders:	NERC
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	30 March 2016
Date of Acceptance:	20 March 2015
Last Modified:	07 Nov 2023 08:26
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/72822

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