An Economist Impact survey of 10,000 people across10 countries reveals that 70 per cent of consumers recognise the sustainability of different energy sources, but don’t have an easy, convenient way to make sustainability-driven choices.

In the UK and the US, 20 per cent of consumers says their scepticism about new technology is a key barrier in their ability to shift to more sustainable energy consumption, and only 36 per cent of respondents reported a strong understanding of how to use such technologies as smart meters. In these countries only one respondent in ten has conducted a home energy audit.

The survey links understanding with action, although, of course, the two are entwined in a ‘chicken and egg’ scenario. However, if utilities adopt user friendly technology that makes it effortless to make smart energy choices, consumers at least will have the information to engage.

A potential way to help the transition could be with smart, AI-driven technology that might simplify energy management, working behind the scenes to coordinate distributed energy resources, flatten demand peaks, and reduce dependence on back-up fossil fuel generation, while also offering an easy entry point for consumer participation.

The survey was conducted by Economist Impact supported by Kraken, Octopus Energy Group’s energy platform.

Full report.

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