Although 64% of people saying they are actively moving towards Net Zero, many still feel left in the dark about how to actually manage their home’s energy efficiency.
Recent research commissioned by Bord Gáis Energy highlights a significant gap in consumer confidence about how households can be more energy savvy. The survey is part of a wider Bord Gáis Energy’s ‘Know Your Power’ campaign which is sparking a nationwide conversation, aiming to bridge the gap between confusion and energy savings, proving that being eco-friendly doesn’t have to be a challenging experience.
MAKING HOME ENERGY DECISIONS
With multiple home energy suppliers and energy efficient products available to Irish households, the research reveals a significant lack of insight when it comes to home heating and energy management. Only 20% of Irish consumers are very confident in their ability to choose the most cost-effective and energy-efficient solutions for their home. While just 28% feel they have a clear understanding of the financial savings they could make by upgrading their home’s BER energy rating.
TECHNOLOGY APPETITE HIGH, BUT KNOWLEDGE GAPS REMAIN
While the appetite for tech is “electric,” knowledge gaps and budget concerns persist. Irish consumers may be aware of the products available to make their houses more comfortable and energy efficient, but they remain somewhat of a mystery.
1 in 5 people (20%) are aware of smart meters but don’t fully understand what they actually do or how they help to understand energy usage.
61% of people say that, if they owned electric vehicle, they would see upfront costs and concerns about monthly bill impacts as barriers to installing an EV charger at home. However to charge a car at night is equivalent to the price of a coffee for people on the right plan (based on charging an EV for 3 hours between 2am-5am on the Bord Gáis Energy Smart EV Plan at 10.57c/kWh (inc. VAT), a 3-hour charge delivers up to 21.6 kWh – enough for up to 140km of driving – for just €2.21).
And over half (56%) of people believe that solar panels are too expensive to install.
CONFUSION OVER GRANTS AND PROCESSES
The survey found that when it comes to the grants available to households and how to apply for them, 57% of consumers are aware government grants exist for installing energy-efficient products, but don’t know the specific details or requirements, while only 19% are very familiar with them and know how to claim them.
And, only 17% know where to go for free expert advice on making a significant energy upgrade, like installing a heat pump or home insulation.
KEY MOTIVATORS AND INFLUENCES
While sustainability remains a significant part of our daily conversations, the research also showed that cost is a big driver. Over half of people (57%) are primarily motivated by saving money on bills when considering energy efficiency upgrades. And a majority (59%) would choose an energy solution because a friend or family member recommended it.
Bord Gáis Energy’s ‘Know Your Power’ campaign focuses on a core challenge in the energy category: while energy has never mattered more to households, it remains a confusing area, and many people find it hard to understand what actually makes a difference to their energy bills.
“This research shows the real challenges people face in understanding their energy usage and energy products,” Meadhbh Quinn, Chief Marketing Officer at Bord Gáis Energy said. “We want to demystify it and empower people to make better decisions and informed choices to help them on their own journey to Net Zero. Through smart technology, renewable products and services, and Smart Energy Tariffs, we will help customers feel more informed, more capable, and more confident in their own energy choices.”
Rather than leading with technical detail or sustainability jargon, the campaign puts understanding first – showing how informed, everyday choices can translate into greater confidence, control and impact at home. It is reframing the brand from a traditional utility provider to an active energy partner, focused on demystifying energy and giving people practical knowledge they can actually use.
