Consumer Focus Scotland commissioned Ipsos Scotland to undertake qualitative research into awareness and views of energy efficiency measures. The overall aim of the research was to examine knowledge of energy efficiency and attitudes, behaviours and barriers to improving energy efficiency. The study was designed to add depth and understanding to the wider work carried out in the Scottish Environmental Attitudes and Behaviours Survey (2008).

Overall, the findings from the study are in are in line with those of previous surveys in that: the main motivation for adopting energy efficient measures was cost; there was a high level of awareness, particularly among low income participants, about the amount of energy being used in the home; and there was a high level of awareness of measures that can increase energy efficiency in the home. 

Technical details

The study comprised two separate components: a short literature review, collating what was already known about fuel poverty and attitudes and behaviours in relation to energy efficiency, and six discussion groups with people on low incomes and people living in large households. The groups took place in Glenrothes, Edinburgh and Kingussie during March 2009.