Addressing barriers: Lower Mainland low-income households and energy efficiency

This study uses focus groups and in-depth interviews to explore why some and not other low-income British Columbia residents use compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), generating policy options aimed at improving the energy efficiency of low-income households. Study results indicate affordability, lack of awareness or poor product knowledge, not having a BC Hydro account, and CFL mercury content are significant barriers to increasing CFL uptake. After evaluating five possible policy options according to cost, effectiveness, administrative feasibility, equity and public acceptability, this study recommends distributing five free CFLs and an informational pamphlet on CFLs to all low-income BC households in advance of banning energy inefficient lighting. The study also outlines lessons learned for increasing low-income uptake of energy efficiency measures.