On target? Examining the effects of information displays on household energy and travel behaviour in Oxford, United Kingdom

Abstract

The energy literature is rich with information on the targeted effects of a behavioural intervention – numerous studies have examined if/how a particular energy behaviour changes over time. There has, however, been much less research on the untargeted effects of a behavioural intervention – limited studies have examined if/how a particular energy behaviour changes untargeted behaviour. More specifically, the relevant literature does not explicitly examine simultaneously how targeted and untargeted effects occur. The purpose of this paper is to examine the targeted and untargeted effects of an electricity display intervention on electricity, gas, and travel through a mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative) approach. The findings indicate that in a sample of 19 participants, 2 had no behavioural or attitudinal changes, 2 had changes in electricity only, 11 had changes in electricity and gas, and 4 had changes in electricity, gas, and travel. Reasons for this are explored through illustrative case studies. This is followed by a discussion and conclusion, where implications and areas of future research are identified.