Understanding Hassle as a Behavioural Barrier to Residential Load Shifting
A survey-based study on load shifting behaviour among Dutch households with solar panels
A.F. van Ekert (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)
Gerdien de Vries – Mentor (TU Delft - Organisation & Governance)
Emile J.L. Chappin – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Energy and Industry)
M.D.A. Rietkerk – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Organisation & Governance)
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Abstract
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.