The communication channels in fostering energy conservation behaviour

Abstract

In Malaysia, the total energy consumption is high particularly in commercial sector. The building’s energy demand is among the main contributors to the country’s energy use. National Energy Balance 2012 stated that commercial sector is the second higher which contributed 33.2% of energy usage after industry 45.1% and followed by residential sector of 21.2%. One of the major challenges faced by facilities manager is to reduce the building’s energy consumption. Although there are previous energy conservation programs launched, the energy conservation progress in building still lacking behind. To improve building user’s energy conservation behaviour effectively, selection of right communication channels then distributes energy conservation messages with the right communication channels remains an important strategy. Critical literature search found that there are six types of communication channels are appropriate to be used to foster energy conservation behaviour: dialogue oriented approach, mass media, print media, outdoor media, audio visual media and utility items.