IFOP EDF study: the expectations of French owners regarding the energy efficiency of their homes

On March 18, the IFOP presented an assessment of the knowledge, behavior and expectations of French homeowners regarding the energy efficiency of their homes. Sponsored by EDF, the survey carried out[1] shows that energy consumption is at the heart of concerns, both in terms of budgetary impact but also in terms of ecological impact.

For more than 8 out of 10 owners, housing is identified as a significant source of energy expenditure (ahead of travel).

Owners sensitive to the energy transition and energy renovation work

Over the past two years, 7 out of 10 homeowners have felt the urgency to fight climate change. Although less than 60% believe they can contribute through their personal action, 90% want to reduce their energy consumption.

In this regard, the owners are rather enlightened. In fact, 9 out of 10 say they have a good knowledge of the measures to take to reduce the energy consumption of their home.

More precisely, 80% of them have already inquired about renovation work and heating systems. This knowledge facilitates taking action by providing a better understanding of the effectiveness of solutions. The implementation of energy solutions is therefore the result of a real process of reflection on the part of the owners.

Rather voluntary owners: between eco-gestures and structural modifications

In fact, it is easier for owners to engage in simple eco-friendly actions than to undertake major structural modifications. For example, 75% of owners have turned down the heating in their homes and 65% regularly monitor their energy consumption, but only 41% have carried out energy renovation work.

Nevertheless, more than 8 out of 10 owners have already carried out or are considering carrying out at least one structural modification: 71% have undertaken or will undertake insulation or energy renovation work and 62% have installed or are considering install electricity consumption management tools.

The drivers of change: bills ahead of comfort and environmental preservation

The financial aspect is the main driver of energy projects. The possibility of reducing energy bills encourages homeowners to invest in renovation work, replacing their heating system or installing solar panels. According to them, energy efficiency is therefore primarily a means of saving money rather than a measure of comfort or preservation of the planet. On arrival, 82% of owners who have carried out at least one energy efficiency project say they are satisfied with the savings made.

However, for many, the investment required remains perceived as too large and unprofitable, limiting actions to wealthier owners who are able to think in terms of long-term investment. The possibility of quantifying the financial gains expected following the installation of an energy renovation solution could thus constitute a major lever for accelerating the implementation of projects.

A typology of owners in their relationship to energy and environmental transitions

This typology gives relief to the results of the study by providing keys to understanding groups of individuals with similar attitudes and behaviors with regard to energy and environmental transitions.

Compared to all French people, certain groups are over-represented among owners: the Committed (16% vs 12%) are the most actively involved, the Ambiguous (21% vs 13%) are aware but less involved and the Indifferent ( 19% vs 16%) who are the most distant from these issues.

If a good financial situation facilitates change, being aware of the issues relating to transitions remains essential, as is the case for the Ambiguous and the Committed. Conversely, the Indifferent remain resistant to change.

[1] Ifop survey for EDF carried out among a sample of 1002 individuals representative of French owners (18 years and over), conducted online from November 29 to December 5, 2023.