Social Nudging for Sustainable Electricity Use: Behavioral Interventions in Energy Conservation Policy

Pratik Mochi (), Kartik Pandya, Karen Byskov Lindberg and Magnus Korpås
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Pratik Mochi: Department of Electric Energy, Norwegian University of Science & Technology (NTNU), 7034 Trondheim, Norway
Kartik Pandya: Electrical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Parul Institute of Engineering and Technology (PIET), Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
Karen Byskov Lindberg: Department of Electric Energy, Norwegian University of Science & Technology (NTNU), 7034 Trondheim, Norway
Magnus Korpås: Department of Electric Energy, Norwegian University of Science & Technology (NTNU), 7034 Trondheim, Norway

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 15, 1-16

Abstract: Traditional energy conservation policies have primarily relied on economic incentives and informational campaigns. However, recent insights from behavioral and social sciences indicate that subtle behavioral interventions, particularly social nudges, can significantly influence household electricity use. This paper presents a structured review of 23 recent field studies examining how social nudging strategies, such as peer comparison, group identity, and normative messaging, have contributed to measurable reductions in electricity consumption. By analyzing intervention outcomes across different regions and formats, we identify key success factors, limitations, and policy implications. Special attention is given to ethical considerations, fairness in implementation, and potential challenges in sustaining behavior change. This study offers a framework for integrating social nudges into future energy policies, emphasizing their role as low-cost, scalable tools for promoting sustainable energy behavior.

Keywords: energy saving; behavioral intervention; social nudge; energy transition; energy policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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