Consumer insights should guide the energy transition
New research published today by the Consumer Council reveals that better understanding of consumers is required if Northern Ireland is to reach its net zero goals.
The Consumer Council’s first ‘Attitudes to the Energy Transition’ report shows that three in ten consumers report having no understanding of what the term ‘net zero’ means.
The research shows that not much more than half of consumers (54%) are aware that the Northern Ireland government is aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. Consumers have also reported fears over the cost of the energy transition. More positively, the research finds eight out of ten consumers support the use of renewable energy to provide electricity, heat and transport, and seven out of ten consumers have already started saving energy at home.
Noyona Chundur Chief Executive of the Consumer Council said: “Our first ‘Attitudes to the Energy Transition’ research study, represents consumers on one of the most important issues that they will experience in their lifetime.
“Energy transition will mean significant changes to how people live, eat, travel and heat their homes and it is crucial that consumer insight informs each stage of decision making.
“We will be carrying out this research study annually to map Northern Ireland’s journey through energy transition through the eyes of consumers. We hope that these insights will help inform policy makers and industry as they implement the measures required for us to meet our carbon reduction targets. Our research shows the level of consumer support, education and protection that is required to ensure consumers can successfully adopt renewable practices and that Northern Ireland can meet its net zero goals.”
Key findings from the survey:
• 84% of respondents had some understanding of the term greenhouse gas emissions.
• respondents were less likely to be familiar with the terms net zero (70%) and decarbonisation (62%).
• 78% of respondents supported the use of renewable energy for providing our power, heat and transport.
• 58% supported the building of new infrastructure in their local area to increase the use of renewable energy.
• 78% supported the provision of government grants to make electric vehicles more affordable.
“Consumer needs are central to the Northern Ireland Executive Energy Strategy and we look forward to working with the Department of the Economy and our local energy sector to ensure consumers have the correct level of information, education, and support available in a way that suits them, so that they are empowered to reduce their own carbon emissions, particularly during this period of high energy prices.” said Noyona.
“Consumers tell us that simple solutions will be the successful solutions and behavioural change should not be demanded without first providing appropriate support and incentives.
“We believe that achieving net zero emissions from energy is essential for long term consumer protection. We will continue to play our part, working with partners to support consumers and bring about positive change. We support the Executive’s Energy Strategy and are committed to working in partnership to deliver it, and the consumer education, support and empowerment needed to help our citizens with this transition.”
- Energy