The impact of disaggregated social capital on household electricity intensity

Abstract

This paper aims, firstly, to analyse the dynamics of electricity efficiency measured by electricity intensity in the household sector in Croatia at the subnational level, in the period 2001-2013. Then, to shed more light on determinants affecting electricity intensity, it evaluates the effect of social capital thereon by conducting the stepwise and quantile regression methods. The results of the former indicate support for a negative effect of generalised trust and reciprocity on household electricity intensity. The results of the latter show that social capital does not influence electricity intensity uniformly; in other words, its influence is more significant in tourism-oriented regions and regions lagging behind. The findings are briefly discussed within the social study findings aimed at encouraging energy efficiency and sustainable behaviour of households through collective action for which generalised trust and reciprocity, as well as social trust in general, are crucial.