The energy transition requires greater flexibility from households, especially as the energy system becomes increasingly decentralised and the Netherlands moves towards phasing out the net metering scheme. Load shifting, using appliances during periods of solar production, is a relevant way in which households with solar panels can contribute. However, many do not adopt this behaviour consistently yet.

This study examines how perceived hassle acts as a behavioural barrier to load shifting among Dutch households with solar panels. It explores how different types of hassle affect load shifting behaviour, with a focus on dishwasher and washing machine use. Also, it studies what shapes the perception of hassle. Hereby, it distinguishes between contextual factors, arising from an individual’s environment, and internal factors, linked to an individual’s characteristics. To guide the analysis, a conceptual model was developed based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), using the effort expectancy construct to position hassle perception. The model was extended with internal and contextual factors as antecedents, and habits were added as an internal factor using insights from habit theory.

The study conducted a structured survey combining closed- and open-ended questions among Dutch households with solar panels. The results show that hassle is a measurable and particularly relevant behavioural barrier. Specifically, the hassle factors described as PV monitoring effort, manual planning effort, decision uncertainty, and overloaded machine inconvenience were linked to lower levels of load shifting. Qualitative responses further highlighted the role of family-related hassle, hygiene-related hassle and technical hassle in load shifting behaviour. Furthermore, the findings highlight how family dynamics, personal flexibility, spillover effects of hassle, and habitual routines shape the perception of hassle.

The insights suggest that interventions should focus on improving energy engagement, not only by improving access to user-friendly monitoring tools but also through campaigns to increase familiarity with solar systems. Most importantly, interventions should focus on supporting households in integrating load shifting into daily routines. Future research could build on this study by examining other appliances, such as electric vehicle chargers, exploring how family dynamics shape hassle perception, and using longitudinal methods to better understand how hassle develops over time.

This research examined the preferences and psychological barriers of Dutch households toward Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS) for charging electric vehicles (EVs) at home. Balancing electricity demand is increasingly critical due to growing grid congestion caused by the rapid adoption of EVs. Smart technologies like HEMS can shift EV charging to off-peak hours, easing grid strain and supporting renewable energy integration. Yet, despite technological readiness, adoption remains limited. Previous studies have largely examined either technical potentials or general behavioral barriers, leaving a gap in understanding specific user perceptions, especially the concept of ”hassle.” In this research, hassle is defined as the perceived effort, inconvenience, and cognitive load associated with managing energy behaviors without technical support.
The main research goal was to assess how different HEMS functionalities either reduce or potentially
introduce new forms of hassle in the context of manually shifting EV charging behavior. To achieve this, a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) was conducted alongside a comprehensive survey that included open-ended responses and statements evaluating psychological factors.
The DCE presented respondents with three distinct HEMS functionalities: basic in-home smart energy coordination, smart charging aligned with dynamic electricity prices, and grid balancing coordinated with external signals. Each functionality was evaluated at different price points and monthly subscription fees to measure willingness to adopt under varying conditions.
Findings revealed that households currently shifting EV charging manually reported moderate levels
of hassle, primarily due to cognitive effort, managing apps, and planning conflicts. Interestingly, all
three HEMS functionalities were expected to increase hassle rather than alleviate it. Grid balancing
was perceived as particularly burdensome due to significant concerns about losing control and unclear personal benefits. Key psychological factors identified included cost savings, environmental impact, comfort, privacy, and control. Cost savings and environmental benefits emerged as strong motivators, especially among younger respondents and those already engaged with smart home technologies. Comfort, defined as maintaining existing routines and minimizing active engagement, was highly valued and represented a significant barrier when compromised. Privacy and control were less prominent overall, though loss of control was frequently mentioned in qualitative responses, suggesting its importance should not be underestimated.
The DCE revealed that users were most likely to adopt HEMS profiles that matched their comfort
preferences and budget constraints. While functionalities like smart energy use and dynamic tariffs
were well-received overall, grid balancing showed more mixed responses. Adoption of this function was significantly lower among users who highly valued comfort, reflecting concerns about loss of control and flexibility. This suggests that preferences are not solely shaped by system complexity, but by how different features interact with personal routines and expectations.
These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers and developers. To support broader HEMS
adoption, it is not enough to offer financial incentives alone, the systems also need to fit smoothly
into people’s daily lives. That means designing HEMS in a way that limits hassle and respects users’
routines and need for control. When technical features align with what people find comfortable and manageable, the chances of adoption increase. This can help make flexible energy use more common and support the energy transition in the Netherlands.