Leverage tech to reduce energy costs, emissions

FPJ News Service MUMBAI

Homeowners are not leveraging available technology to reduce energy costs and emissions, Schneider Electric, one of the leaders in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, said in the third edition of its consumer survey on Thursday.  It surveyed 13,000 people from 11 countries across the world, with 1,000 respondents from India, uncovering global attitudes toward household energy efficiency, sustainability and smart home technology. 

Although 70 per cent of survey respondents recognise the importance of reducing their carbon footprint, many are still opting for small-scale solutions. Turning off lights is the most common energy-saving method, but accounts for just 5% of average energy bills. However, only 44% of respondents adjusted their ambient temperature, representing over half of household energy use.

“While there is an intent from consumer for increase energy efficiency, there is a crucial gap between awareness and action. While a majority of consumers recognize the importance of energy efficiency, the most impactful solutions remain underutilized.

As India moves towards a more sustainable and electrified future, it is imperative to empower homeowners with the right knowledge of how to bring efficiency in their energy consumption,” said Sumati Sahgal, vice president, retail at Schneider Electric India. Home energy consumption is the main driver of home emissions and has increased steadily over recent years with the spread of energy-consuming devices and appliances. 

The report focuses on behaviors, barriers and readiness to adopt energy-saving solutions. Notably, this year’s results highlight a wide gap between awareness and action. 82% of respondents consider energy efficiency “somewhat important” or “very important,” whilst 84% said energy efficiency is the top desired home improvement, and 70% responded that reducing their carbon footprint is ‘important’ to them.