Sustainable use of Energy in Private Households

Private households are responsible for 30 % of the total energy consumption in the Inland region, mainly through their homes and use of cars. Energy efficiency and renewable energy has so far not been given much attention.

The energy consumption in private households mainly consists of electricity and fossil energy. Due to decades of low electricity prices, the focus on energy efficiency has been almost non-existent. Extensive awareness raising is necessary to address the subject of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.

The Inland Norway Energy Agency targets all private households in the Inland region, approximately 370 000 inhabitants. This will be done in close cooperation with the municipalities in the region and through active use of regional and local media.

Goals

The goals within private households are to:

• Increase the public knowledge on energy saving measures and renewable energy systems
• Increase the use of renewable energy in heating of private homes in advantage of electricity and fossil energy sources
• Contribute to a significant reduction in the use of electricity in private households
• Reduce the use of private cars in advantage of public transportation and bicycling
• Increase the use of more environmental friendly cars and fuels

Means

The goals will be achieved through:

• Promoting the use of renewable energy for heating in private homes
• Promoting energy efficiency measures towards households
• Cooperating with the municipalities in awareness raising campaigns and other activities on sustainable energy use targeting private households, including the yearly events Mobilty Week/Car-Free Day and Earth Hour
• Active use of regional and local media to raise the awareness and increase the knowledge on RES and RUE issues
• Daily answering service for private households within RES and RUE in housing and transportations, including national and regional financing schemes
• Written information materials and brochures
• Extensive, practical and useful information on the Agency's web page including energy savings calculators for households, financing schemes and best practice