Work

Between Habit and Investment: Managing Residential Energy Saving Strategies in Polish Households

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Escalating energy prices have positioned households as pivotal agents in advancing demand-side energy efficiency. This study examines three complementary energy-saving strategies among Polish households: (1) habitual, low-cost actions such as switching off unnecessary lighting; (2) capital-intensive investments, including LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances; and (3) time-based and prosumptive strategies linked to dynamic tariffs and photovoltaic systems. The empirical analysis is based on a nationwide survey conducted using the Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing method, involving 401 respondents. The study’s contribution lies in integrating these strategies within a single analytical model and providing the first empirical evidence on their socio-demographic determinants in Central and Eastern Europe, with Poland as a representative case. The results show that older individuals more often adopt everyday habitual practices, whereas higher income and education levels are associated with investment-oriented behaviours. Urban households tend to favour technological solutions, while rural households more frequently adopt time-of-use tariffs and PV systems. Two complementary pathways are identified: a behavioural–habitual path and an investment–technological path. The findings offer guidance for public policy by showing that energy savings increase when financial incentives are combined with clear communication and low-effort decision tools that help households optimise energy use regardless of demographic profile.

Source: Energies

DOI: 10.3390/en19010191

Authors: Agnieszka Peszko, Agnieszka Parkitna, Paulina Ucieklak-Jeż, Kamila Urbańska

Institutions: AGH University of Krakow, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Jan Długosz University

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Education and Sustainability

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities, No poverty, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137