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Conservation or energy development: Consumer perceptions of alternate solutions to the energy crisis

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify segments of the population on the basis of what they believe would ensure energy for the future—conservation or energy/technological development. To the extent that technology is perceived to be the solution, a potential danger exists that consumers will not commit to an energy-conscious lifestyle except as required by increasing energy costs. The respondents were 692 systematically sampled residents of Alabama. A follow-up survey of 73 non-respondents indicated that nonresponse bias was absent in terms of demographic and social-psychological characteristics, perceptions of the energy crisis, and level of energy use. Distinct differences emerged among the segments (energy development, conservation, or neutral) which indicate that policy makers must be concerned with emphasizing that technological breakthroughs are not the solution to the energy crisis.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Auburn University, Auburn, USA

    Richard M. Durand Ph.D.

  2. University of South Carolina, South Carolina, USA

    Subhash Sharma Ph.D.

Authors
  1. Richard M. Durand Ph.D.
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  2. Subhash Sharma Ph.D.
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Note This study was funded by a grant from the Energy Assessment Program, School of Mines and Energy Development, the University of Alabama.

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Durand, R.M., Sharma, S. Conservation or energy development: Consumer perceptions of alternate solutions to the energy crisis. JAMS 10, 410–431 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02729344

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