Human Dimensions of Residential Sector Energy Consumption

Abstract

In a highly urbanized nation characterised by some of the lowest living density in the world, there is a need to better understand the human dimensions associated with consumption of energy. Understanding the context in which the Australians consume energy either directly or embodied in goods and services can be relevant to understanding future trajectories of energy demand in cities. This paper uses an Australian national level dataset to explore the factors determining electricity consumption. It provides the background for a more in-depth analysis of residential energy (electricity) use, particularly with regard to connections between how differences in electricity price, financial wellbeing or long term household stability (e.g. home ownership) relate to the decision-making process with regard to lowering or making energy (electricity) consumption more efficient. Results show electricity demand does not level off for higher levels of income and they seem to suggest the type of the dwelling is not as important as the retrofitting and how people make use of the living space. The data indicates that detached homes could encourage residents to increase their number of energy saving actions (ESAs) and confirms they have a higher likelihood to have insulation or solar energy sources, while living in a capital city makes it less likely to report more ESAs or to have solar power installed. Future work can also explore the relationship between different measures of electricity prices and decisions to retrofit or take energy saving actions.