Microgeneration changes the way householders look at energy use, according to recent research from the Sustainable Consumption Roundtable.

The study looked at microgeneration technologies such as mini wind turbines and air source heat pumps and their impact on attitudes to energy use in households and schools in the UK.

It showed that householders’ behaviour towards energy changes when they are generating it for themselves. “It seems that microgeneration provides a tangible hook to engage householders emotionally with the issue of energy use,” says the report.

The impact is also seen in their changing attitudes to energy conservation and consumption, such as avoiding turning lights and electric fires on and using washing machines on peak generating times.

The findings are part of a report on practical steps the government can take to help people reduce their environmental footprint.

The Sustainable Consumption Roundtable is a joint initative of the National Consumer Council and the Sustainable Development Commission.

Source

Building Sustainable Design