Most households practise energy conservation

Only run a full machine

Almost 90 percent say they are conscious of their energy use in and around the house. People who indicate they are energy-conscious in their behaviour are more likely to unplug the charger as soon as the phone is fully charged. They will also be more inclined to pull on a sweater before turning the heating up, turn off lights in empty rooms and only turn on the washing machine or dishwasher with a full load.
At the same time, those who say they are less energy-conscious pay attention to their energy use as well. The overwhelming majority also turn off lights in empty rooms, close windows and doors when the heater is on and only run the washing machine or dishwasher when they have a full load. However, this sort of behaviour is slightly more prevalent among the energy-conscious group.

Women and elderly people most energy-conscious

Women in particular will back their words with actions: 78 percent of the women are quick to disconnect electronic devices, compared to 71 percent of the men. In addition, 67 percent of the women will dress more warmly before turning the heating up as against 60 percent of the men. Elderly people are quick to disconnect their devices but also turn up the heating more quickly.

Environment-conscious vs. cost-conscious

What drives people who say they are energy-conscious? A large majority are energy-conscious due to cost considerations. Half of them unplug the charger as soon as their phone or tablet is fully charged in order to save costs. Less than one-third do so because it is better for the environment, and over one-fifth do so for other reasons. Two-thirds of the population are motivated by costs rather than the environment when turning off lights and closing windows and doors when the heating is on in a room. Loading the washing machine and dishwasher to full capacity is also based on cost-consciousness most of the time.