A study of fuel poverty and low-carbon synergies in social housing

摘要: This socio-technical pilot involved qualitative interviews with social housing tenants, combined basic energy modelling of the individual dwellings to estimate carbon emissions that house. The study aimed investigate relationship between fuel poverty and carbon-saving synergies in UK domestic stock. Fuel poverty, circumstance where a household spends more than 10% its income on bills, is predicted as being 21% entire poor behaviours described this study, including frugality rationing use, may become common, even be seen “norm”. If bills increase predictions, number households will continue rise. It likely their practices diverse. diversity important it affect not only choice measures for reducing consumption but also post-measure “rebound effect”, perceived saving might achieved use directly, or indirectly, result having lower bills. found “electricity entertainment” very apparent low-income homes, particularly those children. can have significant impact household’s status. discount effect choices related building refurbishment. concludes lack inefficiency main driver UK. Small changes efficiency stock had minimal numbers because driven by gas prices. But if large-scale were made such homes then possible ameliorate rising prices, though without eliminating altogether. work ascertained do recognise themselves living ‘low-carbon lifestyles’ seems they from frugal responses our sample display. Helping this, rewarding through policy, could positive way encouraging continued action substantial both made, buildings are necessary. Existing behaviour, (as governed income) response occupant any potential energy-saving improvement universal across Given context, authors suggest proposed 2011 Energy Act Green Deal suitably structured achieving reductions emissions. provision intends provide loans up £6.500 eliminate need pay upfront measures. cost repayment should covered electricity bill savings. needed genuine, long lasting, effect, £6,500 per home sufficient tenants rise out poverty. currently unclear whether Company Obligation (ECO) compensate weaknesses when applied homes. ECO place one obligations companies requiring them facilitate installation