WILLEMSTAD - A new study has found that 91% of households in Curaçao are implementing measures to save energy, primarily driven by the desire to reduce costs rather than environmental concerns. The research, conducted by the University of Curaçao (UoC) in collaboration with the University of Twente, was published in the journal Energies.
Financial Motivation Over Environmental Awareness
The study, led by researchers Richenel Bulbaai and Johannes Halman, surveyed 382 households to assess energy-saving behaviors and identify major electricity-consuming appliances. The findings indicate that air conditioners, electric cooking devices, and refrigerators are the largest energy consumers in homes.
Most respondents cited financial benefits as their primary motivation for adopting energy-saving practices. In contrast, environmental awareness played a relatively minor role in influencing behavior.
Opportunities for Greater Awareness
While the high rate of energy-saving measures is encouraging, the study highlighted a lack of awareness regarding the environmental impact of energy consumption. The researchers see this as an opportunity to integrate ecological considerations into future public education campaigns.
Potential for Further Savings
The research also underscores the potential for households to achieve additional savings through more efficient use of appliances. "There is still significant room for improvement, both financially and ecologically," said Bulbaai.
The findings serve as a call to action for policymakers and organizations to balance economic incentives with environmental education to foster sustainable energy practices across Curaçao.