Engaging People with Energy Efficiency: A Randomised Controlled Trial Testing the Effects of Thermal Imaging Visuals in a Letter Communication

The study tested the effect of adding visualisations to a communication engage householders with an energy efficiency programme. External wall insulation is appropriate way insulating homes, yet take-up low. Householders may be unaware heat loss from uninsulated walls. In earlier research, seeing thermal images prompted uptake simple actions amongst householders. Thermal were added standard letter visualise transfer home before and after external had been installed. A randomised controlled trial three types (standard, plus image showing problem, problem solution) in 5483 UK households. target outcome was rate telephone enquiries exposure letters. Enquiry rates low (1.6%) did not differ between type. We discuss null relation action (external insulation), manner presentation visuals (mass communication, through door) ingredients persuasive intervention. Findings suggest that taking key ingredient intervention applying it different context result its impact.