Report on Perceptions, Needs, and Priorities of Citizens Concerning the Energy Transitions

Overview

The report on Perceptions, Needs, and Priorities of Citizens Concerning the Energy Transitions, offers an in-depth analysis of rural Mediterranean communities’ views on energy use and sustainability. The report synthesizes findings from extensive ethnographic research across Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, emphasizing how cultural and social dynamics influence community engagement and receptivity to sustainable energy practices

Objective

The main objective of this report is to unpack the complex interplay of factors shaping energy-related perceptions and behaviors across diverse rural Mediterranean communities. Key goals include:

Capturing Local Insights: Deeply engaging with local populations to glean their everyday experiences and attitudes towards energy consumption and sustainability.
Influencing Energy Policy: Providing actionable insights to aid policymakers and local governments in crafting culturally sensitive and effective energy transition strategies.
Promoting Sustainable Practices: Identifying barriers and facilitators to adopting sustainable practices, guiding targeted interventions.

The report on Perceptions, Needs, and Priorities of Citizens Concerning the Energy Transitions was expertly led by Kilowatt Bologna.

Methodology

The report on Perceptions, Needs, and Priorities of Citizens Concerning the Energy Transitions employs:

An ethnographic approach that involved local volunteers known as “Climate Explorers”, who conducted interviews within their communities. This methodology was essential in ensuring a deep understanding of local realities, capturing authentic voices and experiences often overlooked in traditional surveys.
Ethnographic training to equip volunteers with the skills needed to observe, interact, and gather meaningful data from a culturally informed perspective.
Community engagement to foster direct connections with residents and gain genuine insights into their daily lives and energy use practices.

Key Findings

Economic and Educational Barriers: High costs associated with green technologies and a lack of accessible information are major obstacles.
Generational Divides: There is a notable difference in how energy saving is perceived across different age groups, with older individuals often prioritizing economic benefits over environmental considerations.
Local Solutions and Institutional Support: The research underscores the importance of community-specific solutions and points out the often inadequate support from local institutions.

Recommendations

The report on Perceptions, Needs, and Priorities of Citizens Concerning the Energy Transitions concludes with several strategic recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of local energy transition plans, such as

Financial and Infrastructural Support: Suggesting mechanisms to reduce the economic burdens of adopting sustainable technologies.
Educational Campaigns: Implementing local campaigns to raise awareness and educate citizens on the benefits and practicalities of sustainable energy.
Enhanced Participation: Encouraging policies that foster greater community involvement and facilitate knowledge and resource sharing.

Utilization of Findings

This report on Perceptions, Needs, and Priorities of Citizens Concerning the Energy Transitions is intended for use by:

Policymakers and Government Officials: To incorporate grassroots perspectives into energy planning.
Community Leaders and NGOs: To advocate for and implement community-centered energy solutions.
Academic and Research Institutions: To further explore the social dimensions of energy transitions.

The full report on Perceptions, Needs, and Priorities of Citizens Concerning Energy Transitions is presented below:

(Final)_D.3.2 Entrack_Report on perceptions, needs and priorities of citizens concerning the energy transitions (2)Download