A Systematic Literature Review of the Interplay between Renewable Energy Systems and Occupant Practices

Troy Malatesta (), Gregory M. Morrison, Jessica K. Breadsell and Christine Eon
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Troy Malatesta: Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, School of Design and Built Environment, Curtin University, Building 418 Level 4, Kent St., Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
Gregory M. Morrison: Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, School of Design and Built Environment, Curtin University, Building 418 Level 4, Kent St., Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
Jessica K. Breadsell: Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, School of Design and Built Environment, Curtin University, Building 418 Level 4, Kent St., Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
Christine Eon: Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, School of Design and Built Environment, Curtin University, Building 418 Level 4, Kent St., Bentley, WA 6102, Australia

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 12, 1-27

Abstract: The development of renewable energy systems offers a potential solution to energy consumption in the residential sector. These systems face many barriers and challenges regarding the nature of home energy demand and behaviors of household occupants. These barriers are discussed in innovation theory, which describes how people assess new technologies. A systematic literature review of 123 journals was conducted to explore the interrelationship between energy systems, home energy demand and occupant practices. This identified key gaps in the literature and important takeaways from past research showing the limitations of renewable energy systems in integrating into everyday lives. There are numerous personal and social barriers that inhibit behavior change and limit the penetration of renewable systems. Additionally, the development of social norms and institutional rhythms have resulted in people living in a lock-in lifestyle, with limited flexibility for change. This review discusses the role of technology, consumers and policies, and how they must all interact to create a sustainable and effective energy solution to this climate emergency. The next step is to reevaluate the design of home automation and energy management systems to consider the impacts of different lifestyles and routines.

Keywords: behavior; habits; practice; renewable energy; sustainability; home; energy demand (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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