Preference for design elements of financial participation and non-monetary effects of using energy transition technologies - survey results

This paper investigates potential drivers of technology and financial investments in energy transition technologies (ETT). The empirical findings rely on three online surveys, one conducted in March and the other two in May 2024 in Germany. The paper presents the descriptive results of the surveys. Respondents reveal a significant engagement in energy-efficient appliances and building measures, followed by roof-mounted PV systems and heat pumps. Notably, financial investments in renewable energy projects remain low. The general approval for the energy transition is high but declines when associated with burdens. Co-ownership of local energy suppliers or municipalities in energy projects enhance investment willingness of citizens, emphasizing the importance of trust in local policymakers. Key non-monetary factors influencing investment decisions include non-monetary costs such as stress and physical efforts, as well as non-monetary benefits such as ease of use, energy independence, or environmental benefits. The paper highlights that while monetary costs are crucial, non-monetary aspects, such as efforts, individual benefits, followed by social benefits, significantly motivate investments in ETT, underscoring the complexity of factors influencing financial participation in energy transition.