Conference article

This paper explores the energy efficiency learning and practices of youths aged 18–25 years. The studied youths are involved in a project; initiated by a municipally owned housing company; to educate residents and change everyday behaviour; making it more sustainable and energy efficient. This project; which forms our case study; covers socio–technical features such as energy systems and the individual metering and billing of heating; electricity; and hot and cold water. How did the youths perceive and use the systems? Have their attitudes and behaviours concerning energy-related practices changed during the project? The results indicate that a combination of technology (e.g. metering and visualized energy use) and social activities (e.g. educational activities and meeting neighbours and housing company staff) changed some practices involving what was perceived as energy wasting behaviour (e.g. using stand-by modes and taking long hot showers); while other practices (e.g. travelling and heating) were harder to change due to socio–technical barriers. The youths displayed knowledge gaps in relation to the energy system and their basic understanding of energy (the difference between heating and electricity).

Everyday life; youths; housing; socio–technical systems