The impact of higher utility bills on promoting more energy efficient households

Abstract

This study collects the views and experiences of how people have reacted to the rise in the cost of electricity utility and whether they have changed their consumption habits. The study also probes if these changes are a direct consequence of higher bills or greater awareness of the impact on the environment. Furthermore this study takes a closer look at people's preferred sources of information. The methodology used is a combination of qualitative and quantitative tools involving: a questionnaire done online and which had over eight hundred responses and six qualitative interviews which comprised six different types of households in terms of age, number of persons, level of education and type of occupation. The results show that Maltese families were not indifferent towards the rise in the cost of electricity consumption and have adopted new habits to mitigate their bills. A reasonable percentage of respondents have invested in energy-efficient appliances and to a lesser extent in renewable energy. Notwithstanding the unanimous response with regards pro-environment awareness, people are hesitant to invest in renewable energy due to the cost involved. This study also reveals that educational campaigns should target different audiences through the various sources of information. Whilst the Maltese do their best to save on their electricity bills and are very much aware of the environment, they are still hesitant to make investments that require capital expenditure.