Keywords

Behavioural change, ICT, water saving, incentive modelling, evaluation, real-world pilot

Location

Session C5: ICT for Energy and Water Demand Management

Start Date

13-7-2016 8:30 AM

End Date

13-7-2016 8:50 AM

Abstract

Stimulating users to save water is a challenge and an opportunity for water demand management. Existing ICT-based systems for behavioural change often do not consider the underlying behavioural determinants in a systematic way. This paper discusses the design of the behavioural change and incentive model for the SmartH2O system, combining smart meter data with consumption visualisation and gamified incentive mechanisms to stimulate water saving. We show how the design of such a system can be related to a holistic behavioural change model and how this systematic mapping can inform the design of an integrated incentive model combining different incentive types (virtual, physical, social). The model is implemented in the SmartH2O system, and deployed in two pilots. We present the preliminary results for the Swiss pilot. Even though the interim status and sample size do not allow for final conclusions, first results indicate reduced water consumption, positive user feedback and suitability of the designed incentive model.

COinS
 
Jul 13th, 8:30 AM Jul 13th, 8:50 AM

Behaviour change and incentive modelling for water saving: first results from the SmartH2O project

Session C5: ICT for Energy and Water Demand Management

Stimulating users to save water is a challenge and an opportunity for water demand management. Existing ICT-based systems for behavioural change often do not consider the underlying behavioural determinants in a systematic way. This paper discusses the design of the behavioural change and incentive model for the SmartH2O system, combining smart meter data with consumption visualisation and gamified incentive mechanisms to stimulate water saving. We show how the design of such a system can be related to a holistic behavioural change model and how this systematic mapping can inform the design of an integrated incentive model combining different incentive types (virtual, physical, social). The model is implemented in the SmartH2O system, and deployed in two pilots. We present the preliminary results for the Swiss pilot. Even though the interim status and sample size do not allow for final conclusions, first results indicate reduced water consumption, positive user feedback and suitability of the designed incentive model.