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Are Korea's Energy Efficiency Ratings Efficient? The Effect of Energy Efficiency Number Presentation Methods on Consumer Perception of Energy Efficiency

Kim, Gaeun1 · Seok, Gwanho1

1 Korea University

Published: January 2025 · Vol. 54, No. 3 · pp. 647-665

DOI: https://doi.org/10.17287/kmr.2025.54.3.647

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Abstract

This study investigates how the framing of the Energy Efficiency Grade Label (EEGL) influences consumer perceptions of product energy efficiency. Specifically, it examines two key framing variables: numerical denotation (small-is-better vs. large-is-better) and presentation order (improving vs. declining sequence). The research explores how these design choices affect the effectiveness of EEGLs in communicating energy efficiency information. Two empirical studies demonstrate that EEGL framing influences consumers’ ability to distinguish between high- and low-efficiency products. Communication was most effective when lower numbers indicated higher efficiency (i.e., small-is-better) and the labels were arranged in an improving sequence (from low to high efficiency). Additionally, consumers’ involvement with energy saving moderated these effects. These findings suggest that effective presentation of EEGL information can enhance consumer understanding, support informed decision-making, and help close the energy efficiency gap. The study also offers policy recommendations for improving the current EEGL system in Korea.
Keywords: 에너지 효율 등급숫자 표기 방법등급 제시 순서소비자 지각에너지 효용 간극