Achieving maximum energy consumption efficiency from a personal behavior perspective: A case study of Kumamoto

Abstract

This study estimated energy consumption efficiency (ECE) and the additional cost involved in achieving maximum ECE. By investigating the economic precondition for bridging the energy efficiency gap, a behavioral change at the micro level among residents of Kumamoto is analyzed. A utility-based simulation model is used to estimate that 37,276 Kcal is required to achieve the utility level of 6966 for an ‘average person’ in Kumamoto. A reduction of 5300 Kcal is needed to improve the actual ECE of 0.187 to a maximum ECE of 0.218 for one person per day. This goal is achievable by decreasing car trips by 81.2%, increasing non-mobility goods by 7.7%, and increasing public transport trips by 419%. The change in consumption behaviors comes at an additional cost of over 485 Yen to support each person for one day. Although ECE and additional cost are negatively correlated, this relationship is weak and insignificant with a coefficient of 0.007. However, personal income is found to have a significant influence on additional cost, with a negative coefficient value of 0.453. Countermeasures for increasing the consumption of non-mobility goods are recommended, including improving the affordability and accessibility of non-mobility goods by controlling prices and developing advanced logistics. Financial support and subsidies for both residents and transport service providers are also suggested as an incentive to increase the use of energy-efficient modes of transport.