The impact of household energy efficiency measures on health: A meta-analysis

MAIDMENT, Christopher D., JONES, Christopher R., WEBB, Thomas L., HATHWAY, E. Abigail and GILBERTSON, Janet (2014). The impact of household energy efficiency measures on health: A meta-analysis. Energy Policy, 65, 583-593.

Full text not available from this repository.
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2013.10.054
Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2013.10.054

Abstract

Thirty-six studies, with over 33,000 participants, were meta-analysed. The sample-weighted average effect was d þ ¼0.08. Energy efficiency interventions, therefore, had a small, positive effect on health. Participants with low incomes saw greater benefits. Larger effects were found in more recent studies and where medical tests were used. a b s t r a c t It is widely accepted that interventions designed to promote household energy efficiency, like insulation, central heating and double glazing, can help to reduce cold-related illnesses and associated stress by making it easier for residents to keep their homes warm. However, these interventions may also have a detrimental effect on health. For example, the materials used or lower ventilation rates could result in poorer indoor air quality. The present research sought to systematically quantify the impact of household energy efficiency measures on health and wellbeing. Thirty-six studies, involving more than 33,000 participants were meta-analysed. Effect sizes (d) ranged from À 0.43 (a negative impact on health) to 1.41 (a substantial positive impact on health), with an overall sample-weighted average effect size (d þ) of 0.08. On average, therefore, household energy efficiency interventions led to a small but significant improvement in the health of residents. The findings are discussed in the context of the health improvements experienced by different groups of participants and the study design factors that influence health outcomes. The need for future studies to investigate the long term health benefits of interventions designed to promote household energy efficiency is identified.

Item Type: Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018: Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2013.10.054
Page Range: 583-593
Depositing User: Helen Garner
Date Deposited: 08 Apr 2014 10:07
Last Modified: 17 Mar 2021 19:46
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/7923

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item

Downloads

Downloads per month over past year

View more statistics