Promoting differentiated energy savings: Analysis of the psychological motivation of households with different energy consumption levels

Increasing attention has been paid to household energy savings in reducing carbon emissions. However, previous studies have rarely distinguished different energy consumption levels (ECLs) in investigations of energy-saving psychological motivation. To promote the energy-saving of households with different ECLs, a two-stage study was conducted in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. First, we clustered the annual electricity consumption of all households in the sample communities (4,422) and classified the household ECLs into three levels: high, medium, and low. Then, based on the theory of planned behavior, we investigated and analyzed the differences in the psychological factors affecting actual household electricity consumption of the three household types with different ECLs. Results showed that the actual electricity consumption of the three levels generated by clustering was significantly lower than the corresponding threshold values of local tiered electricity pricing. In addition, significant differences existed in energy conservation psychology among the three types of ECLs. These findings provide new perspectives and opportunities for policymakers to differentiate energy-saving incentive strategies and promote the fairness of emission reduction responsibilities. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study investigated household energy savings and found that different energy consumption levels may affect energy-saving psychological motivation. Based on the findings, new perspectives and opportunities can be provided for policymakers to promote energy savings in different ECL households and increase the fairness of emission reduction responsibilities.