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An experimental analysis of electricity conservation procedures.
M H Palmer1, M E Lloyd, K E Lloyd
1Drake University.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Daily electricity conservation prompts and feedback significantly reduced family energy use by an average of 35%, leading to substantial cost savings.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Psychology
- Behavioral Economics
- Energy Conservation
Background:
- Household electricity consumption represents a significant portion of residential energy use.
- Understanding behavioral interventions for energy conservation is crucial for sustainability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of daily prompts and feedback on reducing household electricity consumption.
- To quantify the impact of these interventions on energy savings and cost reduction.
Main Methods:
- A reversal design was employed over 106 days with four families.
- Interventions included daily written conservation prompts and/or daily feedback on electricity usage and cost.
- Consumption data was recorded daily.
Main Results:
- A mean decrease in electricity consumption of 35% from maximum to minimum was observed across families.
- Consumption reductions occurred during experimental conditions, with minimums varying by family.
- Reversals in consumption patterns were noted in three families.
Conclusions:
- Daily prompts and feedback are effective behavioral interventions for reducing household electricity consumption.
- These methods can lead to significant financial savings for families.
- Further research could explore the differential effectiveness of specific intervention components.