The IMAGE | Pinergy Energy Insights Report: Key Findings From 1,037 Energy Users

To better understand how people currently think about and use energy, we surveyed 1,037 consumers on their priorities, behaviours, and concerns.
Below are the 10 core findings from the research, presented as reported by respondents.

Price Is the Primary Decision Driver

When asked what matters most when choosing an energy provider:

• Over 90% selected price as their top consideration

• 28% cited customer service

• 21% highlighted green energy credentials

Pricing remains the dominant factor influencing provider choice.

Working From Home Has Changed Energy Use

Energy consumption patterns are shifting alongside changes in how people live and work.

• 57% of respondents have at least one person working from home at least one day per week

• 24% have someone working from home full-time

• 32% have someone working from home part-time

This suggests that many households are using electricity consistently throughout the day, rather than only during traditional peak hours.

Many Consumers Don’t Know Their Daily Energy Spend

When asked about daily electricity costs:

• 44.8% said they don’t know how much they spend per day

• Over 30% estimated spending between €4–€9 daily

• Over 15% estimated spending between €1–€3 daily

A significant portion of consumers lack clarity on day-to-day energy costs.

Bills Remain the Main Way People Track Usage

In terms of monitoring energy use:

• 60%+ only check usage when their bill arrives

• 24% review usage monthly

• 9% check weekly

• 4% monitor their energy use daily

Most engagement with energy consumption still happens retrospectively.

BER Ratings Influence Purchasing Decisions

Energy efficiency ratings play a role when consumers buy appliances and devices:

• 69% said BER ratings affect their purchase decisions

• 21% said BER does not impact their choice

• 6% said it sometimes does

This indicates a strong awareness of the link between efficiency and energy use.

Energy Consumption Is a Major Concern

Concern about energy consumption remains high:

• 91% reported being somewhat or very concerned

• On a scale of 1–5:

  • 66% selected 3 or 4

  • 24% selected 5 (very concerned)

Energy use continues to be a source of worry for most households.

Strong Interest in Improving Energy Habits

Respondents expressed clear motivation to change how they use energy:

• Over 80% are very interested in improving their energy consumption habits

• 54% selected 5 on a five-point interest scale

• 26% selected 4

• Just 1% said they are not interested

Interest in reducing consumption and improving habits is widespread.

Smart Technology Is Widely Used — and Welcomed

Technology already plays a role in helping households track energy:

• 79% use a smart meter or app to monitor usage

• Of those who feel they have control over their energy use (47%), many cited:

  • Smart meters

  • Mobile apps

  • Solar or home energy tracking tools

• Over 70% of non-users said they would be open to using smart technology in the future

Advice From Energy Providers Falls Short

When asked about support from energy providers:

• 48% said they do not receive enough advice to reduce consumption

• 24% were unsure

• 27% felt satisfied with the advice provided

There is clear uncertainty and dissatisfaction around consumption guidance.

Sustainability Remains a Priority

Environmental concern remains strong among respondents:

• 78% are very interested in becoming more energy conscious

• 80% expressed concern about climate change

Sustainability is closely linked to how people think about their energy use.

Most Homes Haven’t Made Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Despite high interest in efficiency:

• 53% have not carried out any energy-efficiency improvements

• Those who have made changes cited:

  • Insulation upgrades

  • Window and door replacements

  • Solar installations

  • Heating system improvements

A majority of homes have yet to take action in this area.

Further Reading

• Read the full editorial feature on the survey findings on IMAGE.ie

• Explore our perspective on what these results reveal in Mind the Energy Gap

Closing Note

These findings reflect the experiences and views of energy users today. They highlight how people currently engage with energy — and where clarity, confidence, and support are still needed.