'Find a tradesman' in Denmark (Håndværkerlisten) – an interactive list of approved solution providers for getting work done in an energy efficient way

Panel: 5. Saving energy in buildings: The time to act is now

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Michael Reuss, Danish Energy Saving Trust, Denmark
Sarah Allingham, Viegand & Maagøe ApS, Denmark

Abstract

There is great potential for energy saving in private homes, but the market is confusing. Many customers want solutions, but do not know where to find them. Launched on the Danish market in January 2011, 'Find a Tradesman' (Håndværkerlisten) is an interactive web platform that offers consumers the opportunity to find energy efficient solutions provided by competent approved tradesmen.

This paper describes how 'Find a Tradesman' can make it easy for homeowners to find the right tradesmen, and subsequently reap the benefits of potential energy savings in their homes. The paper further examines the barriers faced by the various actors, and how these can be overcome.

The analysis focuses on how 'Find a Tradesman' helps tradesmen who would not otherwise have the means or resources to market and promote energy efficient solutions. 'Find a Tradesman' features Web 2.0 interactive information sharing functionality which allows homeowners to see who they are working with – a sort of tradesman’s equivalent of LinkedIn or Facebook. The analysis further describes the types of energy solutions provided; how easily these can be implemented by homeowners; and how consumers can subsequently rate their experiences by commenting on the standard of the workmanship and the efficiency of the solutions provided. Finally, the paper discusses the many barriers that a web platform such as 'Find a Tradesman' encounters, in both marketing and legal terms.

Initial research indicates that in order to match both parties (homeowner/tradesman) efficiently the services of a broker organization such as 'Find a Tradesman' are required. This is because both parties experience barriers that can be eliminated using a common platform. Currently, it is not possible to determine by empirical research whether, or to what extent, 'Find a Tradesman' results in more energy efficient homes – but the indications are there.