Effective design of in-home displays

Abstract

Demand-side management is widely considered a key tool to achieve the decarbonization on the energy sector. In this regard, providing end users with detailed information about their consumption patterns is key in order to enable them to make informed decisions to reduce or adapt their energy consumption. This requires the deployment of feedback interactive technologies such as in-home displays, dedicated apps/web portals, or ambient interfaces. There have been extensive research and numerous pilot experiences on the effect of these technologies on end-user behavior, which identified the importance of an appropriate device design to achieve the desired demand response. However, a clear framework to design these feedback technologies in order to ensure the desired behavioral change does not exist. In order to fill this gap, this paper presents an exhaustive review of existing research on feedback, focusing especially on interactive devices. This review has resulted in the identification of ten key parameters that should be taken into account by device designers, including the type and form of the information provided (medium, units, disaggregation level, comparisons, goal setting), design of the interface and devices themselves, the possible inclusion of penalties and rewards, and privacy concerns. Recommendations to implement them in such a way that end-user interaction and response is maximized are provided. These recommendations would jointly make in-home displays more effective in creating the desired household behavioral change to maximize energy conservation. Moreover, critical areas where further research is necessary before a sound recommendation can be made are identified.