Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing energy consumption habits in Tongan households to inform the development of effective energy efficiency policies. This study was conducted on Tongatapu, the main island of Tonga, using a mixed method approach involving talanoa (conversations), surveys, time-use diaries, observations, and images. The analysis focuses on the cooking practices of 102 Tongan households as a key area of energy use.
This research offers an original, comprehensive, and culturally informed interpretation of energy behaviour among Tongan households based on the Energy Cultures Framework. Energy-related practices and investment decisions were rarely driven by economically rational choices but were aligned with householders’ social, religious and cultural values. The analysis of the dynamics of norms, practices, material cultures, and external factors, together with the results of time-use diaries, provided a comprehensive overview of the factors influencing household activity patterns and energy consumption. Distinct clusters of households based on cooking data were identified using a two-step clustering method. This allowed for a deeper analysis that revealed differences across the population despite many surface similarities.
This research revealed some reasons why Western energy efficiency policies are unlikely to be effective. For example, Tongan culture and customs have a major influence on the energy efficiency or inefficiency of individuals. Factors shaping energy culture include the influence of community leaders, the influence of the church, the significant influence of remittances on energy decisions, social acceptance, religious obligations, and the lack of knowledge and misinformation on energy efficiency within the community. This research makes policy recommendations based on the different cultural characteristics of each of the cooking clusters.
Theoretically, this study brings cultural considerations to the fore in the analysis of energy behaviour. Methodologically, this study extends the application of the Energy Cultures Framework and develops a culturally relevant set of research instruments. From a policy perspective, it explains how and why culture is important and how cultural analysis can be used to support policy design. This approach can be applied to other Pacific countries or developing countries and to topics other than energy efficiency.