The results of a survey, by OnePoll and electrical supplies distributor Rexel, reveals that this apparent “split personality” around energy usage is highlighted by the differences in their concern for energy wastage.
More than 70% claim that they are concerned about wasting energy at home, whilst only 43% worry about wastage at work.
Looking at specific behaviour, the survey found that the majority of employees (60%) actively charge their personal devices at work, instead of using energy at home, with 32% admitting to daily charging sessions and 36% charging multiple devices.
Other energy costs, such as lighting and heating, also showed the behaviour gap with the survey finding that 93% claim they turn off the lights when leaving an empty room at home, with only 60% doing the same at work.
Rexel’s Northern European strategic development director, Brian Smithers, said: “The continued rise in household energy bills in the UK and the heated global energy security debate has increased consumer concerns and consciousness of their energy consumption.
“Despite this heightened awareness there is a noticeable ‘split personality’ in energy usage behaviour. Our research shows that people are wasting energy and in some cases actively adapting their energy behaviour to avoid the rising costs of energy at home,” added Smithers.
Leigh Stringer