Exploring the factors that influence energy use intensity across low-, middle-, and high-income households in the United States

Abstract

This study examines the relationships between energy use intensity (EUI), which is considered to be an indicator of energy efficiency, and dwelling or housing characteristics, technology (appliances), socio-demographic characteristics, geographic factors, and energy-related behavioral actions. Additionally, it explores whether these relationships vary across low-, medium-, and high-income households. The study is based on regression analyses conducted on a representative sample of households, the 2015 U.S. Residential Energy Consumption Survey. Overall, the analysis revealed two important findings. First, residential energy use intensity is shaped significantly by housing characteristics, socio-demographic factors, technology, and energy-related behavioral actions. Second, the relationships between the factors examined and energy use intensity vary quite substantially across income groups. Lower income households have a higher EUI than higher income households. The policy implications of these findings are that reducing EUI in the residential sector, which may help with addressing energy burdens and poverty among low-income households, will require paying careful attention to these factors and their dynamic impacts across income groups.