Drivers of Energy Efficiency among Households using Grid Electricity in Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

The study aimed at examining the drivers of energy efficiency among households that use grid electricity. Specifically to assess: the effect of awareness, Government incentive, and ICT investments on energy efficiency. A stochastic frontier analysis was carried out using cross-sectional survey data. Most households were found to be aware of energy efficiency. Households that had knowledge of energy efficiency labels, and apply any form of energy saving measure were relatively less inefficient. Likewise, households that; received the Government incentive of free energy saving bulbs; invested in ICT to change from post-paid to prepaid meters; and those using individual/unshared meters were also less inefficient. Further, inefficiency was lower for households residing in planned estates and/or rented homes, and relatively higher for households with backup energy resources. Therefore, implementing and popularizing appliance energy efficiency labels and codes may potentially increase energy efficiency levels in Uganda. The study also recommends increased investment in; energy efficient appliances, individual prepay meters, and incentivizing households with the opportunity to test energy saving technologies free of charge. All-inclusive awareness programmes capturing type of residence and publicity for individual meter use for tenants are pertinent.

Key Words: Energy Efficiency, Government Incentives, Household, Awareness, ICT Investment, Grid Electricity.