Exploring the social dimensions of energy use: a review of recent research initiatives

Within the last decade, a number of initiatives (e.g. conferences, workshops, and research programmes) have been launched by governments, international organizations, universities, research groups, and non-profits to consider the social dimensions of energy production and consumption. This paper reviews and characterizes thirteen of these initiatives, with a particular (but not exclusive) focus on research programmes that address social aspects of consumption and efficiency in the UK. Examples from the US and elsewhere are also noted. The review shows that different institutions are approaching the question of energy use as a social problem in very different ways, and suggests that further coordination and ongoing comparative study of these initiatives could increase their impact.