Research

Responding to the industry need to better understand how people use and trade off gas and electricity in their homes, this mixed methods study will explain householder energy consumption patterns and practices, how they feel about and respond to different energy sources and how these are shaped by, or shape, vulnerability and affordability. While industry regularly conducts surveys on customer sentiment about gas, this research aims to understand deeper patterns and drivers behind energy use to better understand the rationales behind choices. This knowledge of both the cost and non-cost drivers of household energy use is needed to help better manage the transition to future fuels or all electric homes.

The main outcomes of the project will be:

• An audit of the practices of specific types of householders in their consumption of electricity and gas use;
• An understanding of how and why different types of customers balance electricity and gas use and the implications for affordability, fairness and choice; and
• Recommendations regarding how to better manage equity and fairness regarding the practices of householders in the transition to a low carbon energy future.

The ultimate intended impact of the project is to support the energy and gas sector in managing and thriving through the low carbon transition. The project will also help guide the energy sector in reducing affordability concerns and maximising social equity in their residential decarbonisation strategies.

Dr Stephen McGrail

Research and Education Program Coordinator

stephenmcgrail@futurefuelscrc.com