On the Adoption of Improved Energy Efficiency in Buildings: Perspective of Design Firms
Abstract
The adoption of energy efficiency in building design has become a
matter of great importance given the links between energy use and glo-
bal environmental change. While much research has been done on build-
ing engineering and science as well as on the benefits of energy effi-
ciency to building owners and investors, little information is available
on the process of successful technology adoption among designers. This
article proposes that literature on innovation theory can provide insight
into the problem of improving the adoption of energy efficient design.
An adaptation of innovation theory principles to the adoption of im-
proved energy performance has been developed. The objective is to
provide an understanding of key aspects to promoting the technology
more effectively among building design firms. The research highlights
the importance of addressing designers’ informational needs. Problems
of imperfect information are identified, and suggestions for reducing
barriers in this respect are discussed.
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