1 3 Changing Behaviour 3

2 3 Introduction Cutting energy use vital to fighting climate change. Everybodys concern – energy impacts every aspect of our lives. BUT we take energy for granted. To become more energy efficient, we need to break habits. Large potential for energy savings – vastly more efficient appliances available, yet household energy use going up with ever more appliances and electronic gadgets. Other benefits in cutting energy use – security of supply. Supplies of oil and gas are finite.

3 3 Changing Behaviour What is the EU doing? Energy efficiency action plan (2006) stresses behavioural change. Intelligent Energy Europe II ( ) funds projects such as BEHAVE (Evaluation of Energy Behavioural Change Programmes). Sustainable Energy Europe Campaign ( ) organises awareness- raising actions – energy days around Europe and public information. ManagEnergy Case studies – transferable to different regions. Services for local energy agencies. Network of energy organisations – joint projects (EU co-funding). European Union institutions need to practice what they preach – EU Commission buildings being EMAS certified.

4 3 Changing Behaviour Change starts at home The home is the most important place for energy efficiency – accounts for large part of personal energy consumption. Big potential for greater energy saving. Habits and attitudes should change – only use lights and heating when needed. Air conditioning only when essential – really hot climates, bedrooms, nurseries. Alternatives such as ventilation and small fans use a fraction of the electricity. Many people unaware of power used in standby mode – up to half of the total energy used by appliances. Switching off appliances completely could save several large power stations worth of electricity over the entire EU population. Turning central heating down by 1ºC can save up to 10% of energy bill. More efficient products and appliances are already available. E.g. CFL and LED lightbulbs.

5 3 Changing Behaviour Raising awareness Consumers need better information about energy efficiency. The more people know, the more likely they are to change. Campaigns can target the general public, businesses or schools. Children are important because they are the energy users of the future. Transport and more energy efficient products are key. People need to know about cost benefits. E.g. CFL lightbulbs – higher price is quickly written off by 80% saving in energy use. Public authorities can lead the way and stimulate market for greener products. Actions: -refurbishing public buildings -installing efficient equipment -informing public about the changes they make and benefits -energy efficient public vehicles – make visible -efficiency criteria in public procurement -information campaigns

6 3 Changing Behaviour Good practice 1: Campaign Energy Awareness Week 2004, Meath, Ireland Run by Meath Energy Management Agency (MEMA). Activities: school visits, information displays, competitions, car free day, free energy-saving light bulbs, walking bus schemes for schools. Widespread media attention. Big increase in requests for information from local energy agencies. Key to success: planning, close relationship with media, involvement of local businesses and celebrities, competitions and prizes. More information:

7 3 Changing Behaviour Taking energy to the public Energy days – public events to showcase sustainable energy technologies and changes that are practical and cost effective. Organisers: public authorities or private companies. Can include on-site guided visits, tours, educational activities, open days, exhibitions and fairs, project/building inaugurations. Coverage in local press important. Recommended that local/regional authority is lead organiser. Good to find companies as sponsors.

8 3 Changing Behaviour Good Practice 2: Energy day in Genappe (Belgium) Organised by regional authorities of Wallonia to raise awareness of energy saving, especially in transport in the Brabant region. Targets: public, public authorities (schools, local authorities), private companies, commercial sector (architects, heating industry, tradespeople, white goods suppliers). Activities: exhibition of energy-saving products, conferences, educational activities, exhibition of schools projects and an energy rally (with biofuel- powered vehicles).

9 3 Changing Behaviour What is ManagEnergy? Initiative by European Commission Directorate-General for Energy and Transport Supports local and regional actions on energy efficiency and renewable energies Training workshops/online events Information on case studies, good practices, legislation and programmes Network of local and regional energy agencies (LEAs)

10 3 Changing Behaviour More information?