Got a question about the study that we haven’t answered below? Please get in touch.

I can’t commit to participating for 2 years… Is that okay?

Yes, absolutely! While we’d ideally love for you to stay involved from start to finish, participation is entirely flexible, and you can withdraw at any time. If needed, we’ll arrange for the devices to be removed, and you’ll still receive your data and insights at the conclusion of the study.

Are the devices going to look ugly?

No, we have deliberately chosen devices that balance scientific rigor with aesthetics. We want our participants to feel comfortable having them in their homes. See photos in the Project Information Sheet.

Are the devices going to interfere with how I use my air conditioning?

No, the smart AC controller we are using is the Sensibo Air Pro. This is synced with the infrared (IR) signal from your existing AC remote to securely transit data about the time of day that you use AC, the temperature setting, and fan speed. This process of syncing is quick and simple. If the device ever desyncs or goes offline, the only impact is to us (we lose the data) meanwhile your AC unit will remain fully functional.

If I leave the study early, can I keep the installed devices?

Unfortunately, no. We will need to redeploy the devices to another apartment. The option to keep the devices is only available to participants who remain with us until the end of the study.

As a renter, do I need to contact my real estate agent?

From our experience with similar projects, real estate agents’ primary concern is the potential risk of damage to the property. To address this, CSIRO is committed to ensuring that the study does not cause any adverse effects for participants or landlords and can speak with your real estate agent to explain the project and the guarantees we have in place. For example, it is an ethics requirement that our devices do not damage walls. All visible devices will be installed using 3M Command adhesive tabs, designed for damage-free hanging. Our installers will also document the condition of your walls before installation and ensure they are restored to their original state if the devices are removed. For energy monitoring devices installed in the switchboard, CSIRO will cover the cost of removal, either at the end of the study (if you choose not to keep the device) or if your lease ends before the study concludes.

Can I access the data immediately?

In behavioural research, there’s a phenomenon called the Hawthorne Effect, where people may change their actions simply because they know they’re being observed. While we can’t eliminate this effect, we aim to minimise it by limiting the information shared with you during the study. Therefore, by participating, we ask you to “set and forget” the devices we install. This approach helps us collect unbiased data that best reflects how Australians living in apartments use energy in their everyday lives. At the end of the study, we’ll share detailed insights and recommendations based on the data collected

What are the benefits for me, particularly in the short term?

This study relies on participants’ altruism, knowing that your contribution supports scientific research aimed at improving energy modelling, which in turn helps shape better practices and energy policies for the future. CSIRO needs awesome people like you to participate and encourage you to tell the world that you are a citizen scientist!

…But as the saying goes… good things come to those who wait!

At the end of the study, CSIRO will aggregate the data collected about your apartment and share a detailed report with insights into your energy use and opportunities for improvement. We are offering this project output to any household involved for a minimum of 6 months. For renters, this information could be valuable when advocating to landlords for energy upgrades. Additionally, you’ll gain ownership of the all the $1500 smart devices we install, unlocking their full functionality. If you want to know about the ‘smart home’ possibilities read more information below about what the devices can do.

In apartment buildings where we recruit 10 or more households, the study will pay for a free NABERS assessment of common areas’ water and energy use. This assessment worth $2000 will highlight opportunities for energy and water efficiency for your whole building (often 30%) saving how owners corporation fees are spent.

What are the $1500 of smart devices I can keep at the end?

We are using three types of devices designed to improve energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality by providing users with real-time data about their energy consumption and indoor conditions. While the retail and installation costs for these devices are closer to $2,000 per apartment, we estimate $1,500 due to bulk discounts.

Here’s an overview of the devices:

6M Auditor by Wattwatchers ($375) – This device, installed by an electrician ($450), monitors energy usage across five circuits in your switchboard as well as your main power supply. It provides highly accurate data on how different appliances consume energy at various times of the day (at 5min intervals). You can track your daily energy usage through the MyEnergy app, which also allows you to compare energy plans and find the best option for your household.

EnviroQ Indoor Environment Monitors by Tether ($350 each, two per apartment) – These devices collect data on indoor temperature, air quality, and light levels. The dashboard provides real-time monitoring and recommendations on how to optimize your indoor environment. You can view examples of the dashboard here: Tether Platform. In addition to the EnviroQ, one third of the participants will also recieve the Tether AitWit ($350) which monitors air quality – specifically particular matter (PM10).

Sensibo Smart Climate Devices – This suite includes two Air Pro units, one occupancy sensor, and up to four door/window sensors. At JB Hi-Fi, a bundle of one Air Pro and an occupancy sensor is priced at $200 (link). The Air Pro alone costs $179, while window sensors ($50 each) are not available for purchase in Australia. These devices enable remote control of your air conditioner, allowing you to turn it on or off from anywhere. Additionally, the sensors provide notifications when doors or windows are opened, or motion is detected. You can also set automation commands, such as:
*Turning on the air conditioner when the indoor temperature exceeds a set threshold.
*Automatically switching it off if no movement is detected for a certain period.
*Preventing cooling when a door or window is open.

These features help improve energy efficiency and reduce your electricity costs.

If you’re interested in smart home automation, these devices can be integrated with other IoT solutions to optimise energy use further (Google Home Assistant). For instance, you could automate your air conditioning to run during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper, pre-cooling your home in summer before peak demand. Additional smart devices like automated blinds (which close on hot days) and light sensors can further enhance energy efficiency and comfort.

Is the installer male or female?

Most installations in Melbourne will be carried out by Pippa Soccio and Johnny Walker, who will each schedule an appointment with you at a convenient time. Pippa is a Senior Research Scientist with CSIRO (and the Project Leader) and Johnny is a licensed electrician with Sustainability Wise. If you prefer only male or female installers, please let us know when scheduling your appointments, and we will meet those requirements by engaging with other members of the broader team.

In Sydney our local installers are Tonja Gibson, Nick Bradly and Kirstin Dunncliff, who are all CSIRO staff.

All the installers have undergone police background checks and hold Working with Children approvals. They will also present photo identification upon arrival for your peace of mind.

­­How do I know that the data you collect about me and my lifestyle will be kept private?

CSIRO takes the trust Australians place in our research very seriously. To ensure your privacy, every aspect of this study has been thoroughly reviewed by a panel of senior scientists. Thus, the data we collect about you is securely stored and divided into three unique identifiers, making it impossible to trace the information back to you or your apartment. Your confidentiality is a top priority in everything we do.

Is there a way that I can follow the progress of this project over the next couple of years?

Yes! The Apartment Energy Behaviour Study is the largest of its kind in Australia—and possibly the world! Consequently, this project has a big online following via the LinkedIn profile of Pippa Soccio. (Posts regularly canvasing 5000 views). You can follow the live updates directly by connecting with Pippa on LinkedIn, or you can view her posts on the Apartment Energy Behaviour Study: Timeline.