“For the times they are a-changin”: the impact of shifting energy-use practices in time and space

Abstract

The introduction of extensive wind power in pursuit of 2050 carbon reduction targets presents a major challenge to electricity networks because when the wind blows (supply) does not necessarily match when people want to use electricity (demand). As electricity storage remains very expensive, flexible demand will have an important role in balancing the grid. While there is scope for smart solutions such as automation and pricing, people will need to become more flexible in the longer term. Accordingly, the aim of this research was to look at time-shifting energy use. Using practice theory helped move the study beyond a merely technical, individualised or structural approach. This interdisciplinary research used 24-hour in-house observations, interviews, metered energy data and three energy time-shifting challenges. The results challenge current approaches to demand response and suggest that disruption is a normal part of everyday life around which practices are able to rearrange themselves and that it is, therefore, possible to consider changing energy-use practices. While it is necessary to consider the relationships between practices and the fact that they are temporally and spatially anchored, it is possible to locate agency within them and therefore to suggest strategies for changing them. Unlocking this flexibility remains the challenge but a range of innovative options for doing this is suggested.

Keywords:

• energy behaviour
• practice theory
• demand-side management
• smart grid
• interdisciplinary
• rhythm
• disruption
• methodology

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and EON within the Transition Pathways to a Low-Carbon Economy project (EP/F022832/1). The author would also like to thank the participants in the research.

Notes

1. Agency is almost synonymous with instrumentality and is defined as the capacity to influence or change something or to take action. It is generally considered to be an active concept though the status quo may also be thought of as having agency. Finally, agency may be the property of an agent or may be located outside the thing which is being changed. The search for agency is important because it makes sense to focus interventions wherever it is believed the potential for change exists.

2. Economy 7 is a two-rate electricity tariff. Electricity used for seven hours each night is cheaper than that used during the day, hence its name. A special meter is required to track day- and night-time usage.

3. In the text interviews are identified by number. The first number refers to the participant and the second to the interview number for that participant.