Street Knowledge

Solar powered kiosks reflect the energy consumption intensity of each block based on a color gradient to raise awareness of local energy use

Long description

The solar powered kiosks will oscillate along a colour gradient from light green to dark red based on the average monthly energy consumption intensity of the local block. Kiosks will serve as a constant notifier of local energy use. Touchscreens will provide more detailed data regarding energy consumption within the neighbourhood down to the individual building level, as well as suggestions for how to reduce consumption.

The kiosks will serve as a nudge to local residents regarding their use of energy. Nudges, derived from behavioural science have been used by global organisations to help people make decisions which may prove beneficial to themselves. Behavioural science also points out that people are more likely to be incentivized to action to avoid risks, loss and embarrassment instead of benefits.

Kiosks will serve as a signal of the level of energy efficiency across neighborhoods. The aim is to prompt behavioural changes that will translate into greater consciousness regarding energy use. This should be the first step in any energy efficiency programme as technology to reduce energy consumption without behavioural change in people will be limited in its achievements.

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