The Magnetic Island Solar Suburb initiative has provided an outstanding opportunity to develop a blueprint for future sustainable energy use across Queensland. Part of the Australian Government’s $94 million Solar Cities Program, the Magnetic Island initiative has collected comprehensive statistical and behavioural information that will be used to inform future energy and climate change policy in Australia.

Understanding what motivates people to reduce their electricity usage, and learning more about implementing widespread solar power use, are vital steps for Ergon Energy in contributing to a more sustainable future for our communities and our organisation.
 
A combination of social research and engagement techniques were used to maximise the learning opportunities from the Magnetic Island Solar Suburb project.
 
The technique – community-based social marketing - includes traditional methods such as surveys, but also places high value on face-to-face research.

All of the research was aimed at understanding the specific “barriers and benefits” that motivate or deter people from saving electricity.�