The urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels due to their contribution to climate change and environmental degradation has become increasingly evident. The global emissions must be reduced to zero within the next few decades to avoid severe consequences. The recent invasion of Ukraine has further highlighted the importance of clean and affordable energy technologies to address economic, climate, social, and security priorities.
While the energy transition is often approached from a technical standpoint, this thesis recognizes the significance of social dimensions in shaping behaviors, attitudes, and governance structures. By adopting a cultural perspective of energy consumption behavior, the study aims to provide a holistic understanding of the transition process.
This thesis investigates the shift from a passive to a proactive energy relationship, taking into account the influence of changing context factors. It begins by framing energy relations through extensive literature research and research methods, resulting in the development of an energy relation framework. This framework emphasizes the role of individual autonomy and integration in shaping energy relationships. Historical research and trend analysis are conducted to examine the evolution of energy relations and identify potential future scenarios.
Building upon the understanding of energy relations, the thesis proposes the design of an intervention that enables individuals to experience a proactive energy relationship. The Forekast is based on a redesign of a transformer box into an interactive intervention that increases energy awareness and highlights the interconnectedness of energy, weather conditions, and consumption patterns.
The effectiveness and desirability of the intervention are evaluated through tests conducted at Energie Lab Zuid-Oost and a street test in ArenApoort. The evaluation assesses the impact of the intervention on residents’ engagement, knowledge-sharing, and adoption of sustainable energy practices. The thesis concludes by discussing the implications and value of fostering a proactive energy relationship, contributing to the acceleration of the overall energy transition.
In conclusion, this thesis sheds light on the relational aspects of energy in the context of the energy transition. By examining the shift from a passive to a proactive energy relationship and proposing an intervention that serves as a catalyst for dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and empowering residents to actively engage in sustainable energy practices.
Keywords: energy relationship, context factors, intervention design, proactive approach, energy transition.