75 Collective Smart Metering and Behavioural Change J. Glasser, C. Page, A. Petricu, C. Correale, R. Theophanous, V. Carare Lancaster University INTRODUCTION In a bid to increase sustainability, we suggest minimising energy consumption through changing the consumption habits of individuals, in part by using smart meters. Experts argue that conserving energy is one of the best ways to prevent climate change (Löfstedt, 1991) . Universities send out thousands of graduates into the world every year. If these institutions can influence those individuals’ consumption habits to become more sustainable, this could potentially have a wide impact extending far beyond just the University campus. T HEORY Our aim is to change attitudes, social norms, behaviours and increase self-efficacy as research showed this was the best strategy (Sheeran, 2006). Smart meters are a technology which not only monitors electricity consumption, but also makes this information available to the consumer. We will use a traffic light system along with a percentage and text display, as these three combined were shown to have the greatest influence, to provide people with information about how sustainable their energy use is (Sally Malam, 2009). Research points to the need of combining different strategies in a coherent and consistent way, because attitudes themselves are influenced by factors aside from information provision, for example: price, trust and a sense of moral obligation (G. Gardner, 1996) (H. Devine-Wright, 2004). METHODS We propose displaying the traffic light results of their flat’s smart meter, along with a percentage and some text, on each individual’s Student Portal webpage. This is a personal page for each student to check all the things related to their course. Moreover, research into the outcome of implementing smart meters highlighted that communal metering would be much more influential than individual monitoring. Not only are many of the most highly energy consuming appliances found in communal areas, such as cookers, kettles and toasters; but behavioural modification was found to be most significant when the costs benefits were shared (Leygue , et al., 2014). Furthermore, we will: introduce an ‘energy use cap’ for each flat, which if exceeded will incur small monetary fines; set specific energy saving goals and create a team of people dedicated to act as a 3rd party in supporting the students in achieving these; create more discussion around sustainability; generate self-talk and prompt practice(Sheeran, 2006) (H. Devine-Wright, 2004). RESULTS Potential results are: creating a sustainable behaviour in students; reducing energy consumption; monetary income for the University from fines for excessive energy use; social cohesion inspired by working with flatmates to reduce energy use; provision of data for potential research opportunities for academics and students; improved University image and reputation regarding carbon footprint. CONCLUSION The advantage of our idea is that it is very easy to implement and makes use of technology in a smart way, for a durable success. Moreover, we envision expanding our idea to include smart meters for heating and water consumption. COMMUNICATIONS LAPTOP CONCEPT BACHELOR FINAL ASSIGNMENT 301
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