Integrating sufficiency and energy efficiency in rental housing

Eva-Maria  Grommes; Leonie  Bremer; Valérie  Varney; Ulf  Blieske

doi:10.59400/esc2104

Integrating sufficiency and energy efficiency in rental housing

Eva-Maria Grommes Cologne Innovation and Transfer Lab, University of Applied Sciences Cologne, 50968 Köln, Germany
Leonie Bremer Cologne Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Applied Sciences Cologne, 50968 Köln, Germany
Valérie Varney Cologne Innovation and Transfer Lab, University of Applied Sciences Cologne, 50968 Köln, Germany
Ulf Blieske Cologne Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Applied Sciences Cologne, 50968 Köln, Germany

Article ID: 2104

Keywords: sufficiency; energy efficiency; rental housing; energy policy; tenant engagement; building retrofitting; private housing market

Abstract

This study examines the application of sufficiency practices in rental housing with a focus on enhancing energy efficiency. In particular, it considers how rental market structures influence tenants’ energy use behaviors. Given that rental housing represents a substantial proportion of urban residential buildings, it is imperative to gain insight into the dynamics between landlords and tenants in order to effectively manage energy usage. The research methodology employs a combination of literature review, chatbot-based surveys, and expert interviews to gather insights from tenants and landlords, with the objective of identifying practical strategies to support energy-efficient living. The findings indicate a significant interest among tenants in energy-saving practices, underscoring the pivotal role of landlords in disseminating information about energy efficiency measures. However, the prevailing market structures frequently constrain tenants’ ability to implement significant energy savings. The implementation of supportive policies, particularly those that encourage landlords to undertake energy-efficient retrofits, is identified as a crucial means of facilitating tenant engagement. The study concludes with policy recommendations that emphasize the necessity of both tenant engagement and landlord accountability in promoting energy-efficient behaviors. These insights are intended to inform the development of future retrofitting standards and policies that foster a more sustainable rental housing market.

Published

2025-05-15

How to Cite

Grommes, E.-M., Bremer, L., Varney, V., & Blieske, U. (2025). Integrating sufficiency and energy efficiency in rental housing. Energy Storage and Conversion, 3(2), 2104. https://doi.org/10.59400/esc2104

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Vol. 3 No. 2 (2025)

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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