Saving energy is an area with unused potential. Such a belief is becoming more and more common, especially taking into consideration the crisis on the energy price market. Changing consumer behavior is therefore key to improving energy efficiency in buildings and contributes to rationalizing energy consumption and reducing costs.
Actions aimed at reducing energy consumption and supporting households in introducing positive changes in their homes are an increasingly common practice used by local governments. More and more people “have a very conscious and responsible approach to climate-related issues, including the reduction of energy consumption” (from the letter of the president of Bielsko-Biała to the residents). In order to meet local needs, various initiatives are undertaken related to energy consulting, facilitating access to subsidies, building awareness and good habits, and consequently reducing energy poverty.
An example of good practice can be the action of authorities of the city of Bielsko-Biała. In the spring of 2022, almost half a thousand residents applied there to take part in a comprehensive advisory process on the rational use of energy. EnergyMeasures program is a unique opportunity for residents, thanks to which they can obtain professional support in the field of energy efficiency in an individualized way. Its purpose is to build knowledge of sustainable and conscious use of electricity and heat, to reduce energy consumption without limiting the comfort of living, and to indicate energy related solutions tailored to the participant. Participants have already had two meetings with Energy Advisors, during which a diagnostic survey was carried out, and then a set of personalized tips were provided to reduce energy consumption by means of no- and low-cost measures. Participants also received an Energy Package - containing devices facilitating the implementation of the proposed solutions. Within a year of joining the programme, the actual impact of the implemented low-cost solutions on the reduction of energy consumption in households under care will also be realised.
The Małopolskie Voivodeship can also boast of comprehensive consulting solutions. Thanks to the network of eco-advisors, which currently includes over 200 people and is constantly expanding, pro-ecological activities are popularized for various social groups. The goal is to ensure that each community has access to the specialist who educates and supports residents in the process of rational use of energy, obtaining subsidies or replacing furnaces with more ecological ones - which is one of the current priorities for the region. Thanks to direct contact, it is also possible to influence the change of behavior and awareness of the environment, including, above all, the improvement of air quality in the region. An interesting solution was implemented in Krakow as part of this initiative: free-of-charge thermal imaging controls performed by employees of the Krakow Energy Advisory Center, prior to the process of selecting the right elements for thermal modernization.
The presented examples are only the beginning of good changes and may become an inspiration for other actions implemented by local governments. Meeting the needs of residents is particularly important in the face of the current geopolitical situation, and education "at the basics" not only builds a conscious society, but above all gives a sense of support in understanding the impact of local and European policies on residents.
