A switch by design

User-centred design of smart energy technologies to change habits of using energy at home

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Abstract

This doctoral thesis demonstrates that households are able and willing to permanently change their habits of using energy, if they are supported by well-designed, user-friendly technology. Previous studies have assessed the impact of smart energy technologies and new tariff structures to make optimal use of sustainable energy supply and the existing energy infrastructure. However, these studies did not investigate the desired behaviour change on such a large scale and/or over such a long time. Moreover, there has been little focus on developing user-friendly smart energy technologies. The findings from both quantitative and qualitative research demonstrate that only when people are able and willing to use smart energy technologies over time, these technologies can bring about a lasting change. Therefore, this thesis includes practical design guidelines for developing smart energy technologies that are intended to have a lasting effect on the way energy is used at home.