The project is motivated by an ongoing transformation of the energy system and the designation of private households as an untapped resource for more flexible electricity use. The purpose of the project is therefore to study the introduction of smart electricity meters and smart electricity network technology in homes through behavioral science methodology with a focus on how different types of households are affected by the technology.
The energy sector has historically been a technology-driven industry and in the transition to user-friendly services, there is a knowledge gap between suppliers and customers. The project aims to create knowledge about how technology for smart grids should be designed and implemented to fit into people's everyday lives.
The empirical core is a case study of Ellevio's rollout of 4,000 new smart meters in the Älvsjö pilot area in Stockholm. Interviews with different types of households are conducted to identify how their everyday lives and the dynamics of households are affected by the new "smart" technology. Focus group interviews are planned where households may take a position on different future scenarios regarding the automation of their homes. Interviews with various stakeholders are also conducted to find out what visions they have and how they view households as users. The results from the project are intended to be used by researchers, the energy sector, service developers and authorities to introduce smart grids in homes.
