Long-term Energy Cost Labelling for Appliances: Evidence from a Randomised Controlled Trial in Ireland

Abstract Given the longevity of investments in energy-consuming products (such as household appliances, vehicles, and properties), underinvestment energy efficiency can have long-lasting negative economic environmental consequences. Previous research has indicated that may be due to imperfect information relation long-term benefits investing efficiency. This paper presents results a cluster randomised controlled trial examining an intervention which aims overcome this deficit by providing cost on appliances electrical retail chain Ireland. Two treatments are considered: label showing 10-year based typical usage for four appliance categories (fridge freezers, dishwashers, washing machines, tumble dryers); second treatment supplements with QR code where consumers gain personalised estimates their expected usage. Results indicate neither resulted increase average sold. Also, engagement customers was extremely low. newly designed EU labels incorporate codes personalisation, low suggests element new ineffective increasing uptake Finally, customer survey while increased stated importance decision-making, did not translate into purchased, i.e., preferences revealed purchasing preferences.