Improving energy efficiency in the retail sector through job redesign: a sociotechnical systems approach

Abstract

Over recent years, the UK retail sector has made a significant contribution to societal responses on carbon reduction. We examine how energy related technologies and strategies are incorporated into organisational life through a study on behavioural energy efficiency within one of the UK’s leading retailers. Our qualitative data was gathered from a total of 61 participants gathered using phased interviews and focus groups. We introduce an adapted socio-technical framework approach to build on and enhance an existing behavioural strategy to support reductions in energy use. Our findings point to sociotechnical and goal-setting factors which both impede and/or enable energy efficient behaviours, these include: tensions created by a lack of alignment between the store level perception of energy management goals, and the reality of the strategic approach; an emphasis on the importance of technology for underpinning change processes; and, the need for feedback and incentives to support the completion of energy-related tasks.