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

Citation

Reid L, McKee K & Crawford J (2015) Exploring the stigmatization of energy efficiency in the UK: An emerging research agenda. Energy Research & Social Science, 10, pp. 141-149. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2015.07.010

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.

Keywords
Energy efficiency; Consumption; Stigma; Housing policy; Bourdieu; UK; Scotland

Journal
Energy Research & Social Science: Volume 10

People

Dr Kim McKee

Senior Lecturer, Housing Studies