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U.S. Department of Energy
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Consumer attitudes toward potentially restrictive energy conservation regulations

Thesis/Dissertation ·
OSTI ID:6126296
A sample of 893 Oregon individuals from a Western Regional Agricultural Experiment Station Project (W-159 Consequences of Energy Conservation Policies for Western Region Households) was used to analyze consumer attitudes toward potentially restrictive energy conservation regulations. Belief in the seriousness of the energy problem, a psychological measure of internal control (internality), and eight socio-demographic characteristics were examined in relation to consumer attitudes toward these regulations. Those who did not believe in the seriousness of the energy problem were over 50 years of age, male, had less than a college degree, and opposed mandatory energy conservation regulations related to home thermostat settings. Homeowners opposed the regulation requiring their homes to pass an energy audit. Opposition to regulations appeared to be related only to an individual's perception of the consequences of the regulation, and not to belief in the enregy problem or locus of control. Those with low internality scores included females, rural residents, respondents over 50, and those with less than a college degree.
OSTI ID:
6126296
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English