Exploring the stigmatization of energy efficiency in the UK: An emerging research agenda

Abstract

Energy efficiency technology is widely accepted as a positive step to improve the comfort of homes whilst simultaneously reducing harmful carbon emissions. There is a convincing case that more widespread adoption of energy efficiency technology is required, yet paradoxically, the identification of households as being in need of assistance to do so, may, we argue, be stigmatizing. Recent literature has begun to explore the role of stigma in domestic energy-saving practices but such scholarship is restricted beyond a few studies. In this exploratory paper we respond to calls for social scientists to engage with energy research, and redress this neglect by outlining the nature of the relationship between energy efficiency and stigma. We also seek to develop an emerging research agenda, which draws theoretical influence from Sociology and Housing Studies.