Postgraduate Researcher: Gregory Sewell
Supervisors: Dr Stephanie Gauthier; Prof Patrick James
Research Group: Energy and Climate Change
Project Description
Previous research has shown significant differences in the adoption and the use of technology between generations; defined as ‘silent’, ‘boomers’, ‘generation X’, ‘millennials’ and ‘generation Z’. However less is known on the influence of one generation to another generation in the use of technology and in particular heating controls. Home heating controls refer to radiator controls, thermostats, timers and/or switches. Their interfaces vary from direct control (e.g. operable windows) to remote and smart controls (e.g. thermostats).
This research project aims to explore inter-generation influences on household heating controls.
The objectives will be to:
- To review the inter-generation influences in home
- To review home heating controls and interfaces and their relationship to human behaviour, energy use and occupant comfort
- To undertake a large online survey (N=1,000 households) of the use of heating controls with smart interfaces, in collaboration with Igloo (energy supplier) (Building on past and current projects between the supervisory team and Igloo)
- To undertake a longitudinal controlled intervention (N=50) (over 1 year) to explore the possible influence of children (Generation Z) on parents (Millennials or Generation X), in collaboration with Southampton primary schools. (Building on past projects of the supervisory team)
Inter-generation influences on households heating controls