Introducing Eco n'Home

Context
Energy use accounts for 78% of greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union and is therefore the greatest source. Domestic households account for 25% of this energy use and thus present a significant opportunity to reduce these emissions.

Sustainable energy is therefore a priority and will not only benefit the environment, but also social and economic agendas. All sectors must find ways to reduce their demand by energy saving, more efficient equipment and processes, and the greater use of low carbon and renewable sources as alternatives to fossil fuels. In addition, there must be a widespread change in attitudes and behaviour so that any benefits are sustained.

The Green Paper on energy efficiency (Doing More with Less) was published in March 2006 to provide a common, coherent policy framework for all member states and reduce demand 20% from 1990 by 2020 through cost effective sustainable energy actions. Included in this framework are programmes to address the domestic sector, which explains around 25%, and the 20% used in transportation.


Innovation
Eco n'Home is an innovative approach to sustainable energy advice within the domestic sector that is beyond the common practice of any member state.

A key feature was the personal service - every household received a visit from a personal adviser who carried out a full energy audit. The household then received an Individual Report, carbon footprint and a list of specific recommendations for action. Feedback was presented using both graphics and text so it was easy to understand - see an example below.

The households received an action plan with their report listing these recommendations. They were asked to indicate the actions they planned to undertake and return it to their adviser as the basis for follow-up.

The follow-up of households took place over twelve months beginning with the signing of the Plan. During this period advisers worked one-to-one to provide specific advice, information and access to financial support. Energy meters were monitored so that impacts of actions could be identified and to engage the household further.

At the end of this period the households were evaluated on actions taken, changes in energy use, and therefore also in carbon emissions. The energy change is referred to as Negawatts i.e. demand avoided. A second Report presented these changes to the household.


Key features
Unique features of Eco n'Home are therefore:

- Personal advice for every household

- One to one contact with an energy adviser

- Recommendations specific to dwelling & travel

- Relevant information and advice

- Follow-up of opportunities over twelve months


Policy development
The creation of Negawatts relates strongly to European policies on Energy Services (DIRECTIVE 2006/32/EC) and the development of a market for White Certificates, and the Energy Performance of Buildings (DIRECTIVE 2002/91/EC).

- Evaluating specific energy and financial savings and following-up households is the basis of an energy services arrangement with an energy utility

- Purchase of certificates by energy utlities could contribute towards national government obligations for example in the UK, the Energy Efficiency Commitment (EEC)

- Implementation of opportunities identified through the Energy Performance Certification process