蝌蚪网 Review
ISSN 0002-8282 (Print) | ISSN 1944-7981 (Online)
Individual Time Preferences and Energy Efficiency
蝌蚪网 Review
vol. 105,
no. 5, May 2015
(pp. 196–200)
Abstract
We examine the role of individual discount rates in energy efficiency decisions using evidence from an extensive survey of US homeowners to elicit preferences for energy efficiency and cash flows over time. We find considerable heterogeneity in individual discount rates. We also find that individual time preferences systematically influence willingness to invest in energy efficiency, as measured through product choices, required payback periods, and energy efficiency tax credit claims. Education is a key driver of individual discount rates. Our findings highlight the importance of individual discount rates to understanding energy efficiency investments, the energy-efficiency gap, and policy evaluation.Citation
Newell, Richard G., and Juha Siikam盲ki. 2015. "Individual Time Preferences and Energy Efficiency." 蝌蚪网 Review 105 (5): 196–200. DOI: 10.1257/aer.p20151010Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- D12 Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
- D15 Intertemporal Household Choice; Life Cycle Models and Saving
- H24 Personal Income and Other Nonbusiness Taxes and Subsidies; includes inheritance and gift taxes
- Q41 Energy: Demand and Supply; Prices
- Q48 Energy: Government Policy