Incentivizing Energy Efficiency in Rental Properties
Advisor Information
Christopher Decker
Location
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
6-3-2015 11:00 AM
End Date
6-3-2015 12:30 PM
Abstract
I conducted an online survey of 110 landlords to test two popular theories of the underinvestment in energy efficiency among rental property owners. Participants answered questions about their properties and were randomly assigned to read one of four descriptions of a hypothetical incentive program. Each description detailed similar steps to qualify for government aid in installing energy efficiency improvements. One description emphasized the financial benefits of energy efficiency that accrue to property owners even when tenants are solely responsible for paying utilities. A second description detailed how program administrators planned to use local media to promote energy efficient rental properties to prospective tenants. A third description contained both of the special elements outlined above, while a fourth (control) condition contained neither. Participants were then asked how likely they would be to participate in the program at varying levels of financial support. ANOVA reveals no statistically significant effects of the experimental manipulation, however a review of the open-ended responses and other data received offers valuable insight into future research.
Incentivizing Energy Efficiency in Rental Properties
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
I conducted an online survey of 110 landlords to test two popular theories of the underinvestment in energy efficiency among rental property owners. Participants answered questions about their properties and were randomly assigned to read one of four descriptions of a hypothetical incentive program. Each description detailed similar steps to qualify for government aid in installing energy efficiency improvements. One description emphasized the financial benefits of energy efficiency that accrue to property owners even when tenants are solely responsible for paying utilities. A second description detailed how program administrators planned to use local media to promote energy efficient rental properties to prospective tenants. A third description contained both of the special elements outlined above, while a fourth (control) condition contained neither. Participants were then asked how likely they would be to participate in the program at varying levels of financial support. ANOVA reveals no statistically significant effects of the experimental manipulation, however a review of the open-ended responses and other data received offers valuable insight into future research.