The report summarises the outputs of EUDM Work Stream 2's activities in FY15/16, which aimed to identify optimal pathways for new primary data collection. The report includes a comprehensive literature review followed by a concrete proposal for new primary data collection in EUDM, with a central focus on surveying and meter data collection in the residential sector.

The literature review examines some of the major methods that have been used to collect data from households in previous energy-related studies across the globe. This includes an overview of the major advantages and disadvantages of different approaches, alongside recommendations for best practice.

Drawing on the insights from this literature review – and guided by best practice principles for sampling, recruitment and data collection – a proposal is then outlined for collecting new primary data (self-report survey data, linked with energy consumption data) from a sufficiently large and broadly representative sample of households. Various strategies for optimising data quality and quantity are considered, including ways to improve survey design and delivery, as well as the use of motivational techniques, incentives and rewards to encourage survey participation.

The report concludes with a summary of key recommendations for moving forward with EUDM primary data collection in FY16/17.

Note that outputs from primary data collection efforts stemming from this work are available (see the Related Resources listing on this page).