Abstract
Energy related technologies can play an essential role in the journey to net zero, reducing the carbon emissions of UK housing stock, while maintaining acceptable levels of thermal comfort. However, progress in this area depends on the actions of those who own and/or live in these properties and may face barriers to installation. This research explored how people respond to new technologies, with a particular focus on those dealing with different aspects of vulnerability. Specifically, it used an innovative setting – the Futures Close demonstrator site – to showcase eight different energy related technologies in situ and analyse feedback from 27 members of the public. Findings indicate some shared concerns around practical, hedonic and risk factors across both vulnerable and non-vulnerable groups with differences lying in the reasoning behind their prioritisation. The research also demonstrated the importance of in-person engagement and the persistence of uncertainty around new and ‘untested’ ideas.