Closing the gap between wanting and doing
The energy-efficient refurbishment of buildings is an important pillar for successful energy transition and thus for climate protection. After all, buildings are responsible for 35 percent of energy consumption in Germany. The largest share of this, in turn, is caused by residential buildings, which can potentially save a lot of energy. But why is the energy turnaround in the building sector progressing so slowly? The idea that renovation involves a considerable investment often creates a barrier to obtaining further information, for example about possible subsidies.
Where information is lacking and how it can be better disseminated in order to provide targeted support for homeowners in the field of energy-efficient renovation is the central question being investigated in the Efficient Citizens project. The special feature: The researchers from inter 3 are working together with citizen scientists and the project partner co2-online.
Identify and remedy information and communication deficits
In the project, homeowners are trained as citizen scientists who then develop, conduct and evaluate a survey of other homeowners together with the project team. At the same time, a broad-based online survey will be launched. Subsequently, information needs, energy consultation-effects and information on effective incentives for action will be identified. On this basis, recommendations for effective information work and energy efficiency advice will be developed and made available to the actors in energy and climate communication.
Within the project, inter 3 is responsible for the conception as well as the qualitative and quantitative sociological evaluation of the panel surveys and target group-oriented preparation of the information content.
EfficientCitizens is a citizen science project funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection. The duration of the project is from November 2021 to October 2024.