Work

Heating practices during the energy crisis of 2022: the role of energy vulnerability and environmental concern

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Over the years, energy research in wealthy countries has shown that energy consumption happens unconsciously in connection with everyday routines, and most people—at least in the relatively prosperous and equal society of Denmark—are not aware of the price of energy. During the energy crisis of 2022 this was no longer the case, and new research questions were raised, including how do increasing energy prices and public awareness of the energy crisis affect heating practices in different types of homes and how do people cope with the new situation in practice? A qualitative study including interviews with 30 households from varying socioeconomic circumstances forms the background of the analysis. The research investigates similarities and differences in coping strategies and meanings related to changes in everyday practices, discussing whether changes carry different meanings according to energy vulnerability and environmental concern. The analysis is based on practice theoretical understandings and this article provides insights into how practice change and variations in practices following a crisis can be interpreted. The conclusion discusses the implications of the findings for the green transition.

Source: Sustainability Science Practice and Policy

DOI: 10.1080/15487733.2024.2420413

Authors: Kirsten Gram-Hanssen, Line Valdorff Madsen, Line Kryger Aagaard, Rikke Skovgaard Nielsen

Institution: Aalborg University

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Education and Sustainability

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $778