European consumers' perceptions of energy efficiency and the role of energy labels: data analysis and future prospects

This master’s thesis investigates Greek consumers' perception of European’s Union (EU) energy policy, and the role of the EU Energy Label as a policy instrument. The effectiveness of the EU Energy Label relies on consumers' ability to comprehend and apply the information presented by it. The study therefore evaluates how demographic and socio-economic factors affect consumer attitudes toward energy efficiency, purchasing priorities for household appliances, and perspectives of the EU Energy Label. The empirical analysis employed data from Special Eurobarometer 492 survey. A quantitative methodology incorporating statistical processing and interpretation methods was implemented to identify associations between diverse consumer characteristics and their responses regarding energy efficiency and labelling. The findings suggest that the awareness of energy efficiency does not consistently influence purchase behaviour. Variables such as income, education, age, and financial limitations are highly correlated with variations in consumer priorities regarding price, energy efficiency, and environmental factors when purchasing household equipment. Individuals experiencing financial challenges tend to prioritise initial costing, while those with higher education and economic stability showcase increased awareness of energy efficiency and environmental consequences. Therefore, the success of informative policy instruments, such as the EU Label, is determined not only by the policy tool's design, but also by the social environment in which consumers take their decisions. As a result, the study aims to contribute to a better understanding of how consumer heterogeneity affects the "real world" performance of energy labelling, as well as to provide insights into the development of more inclusive and adaptable energy efficiency policies as the EU transitions to a greener economy.