Integrative Review-Based Conceptual Modeling: An Agent-Based Modeling Synthesis of Dynamic Energy Tariff Research and Models

Abstract

Adoption of dynamic energy tariffs by households is crucial for the transition to carbon-neutral energy systems. Influencing the adoption patterns of these tariffs necessitates an examination of the drivers, decision components, and contextual factors influencing household decisions. Few computational models address this comprehensively, often omitting non-financial decision variables. Moreover, methodologically robust integrative reviews on this topic are scarce. To address this gap, this paper develops a concept-centered integrative review methodology aimed at deriving computer models for socio-techno-economic simulations of household adoption of sustainable technologies. The methodology encompasses five sequential phases: Setup, Literature Search, Analysis, Synthesis and Conceptual Model, and Discussion. To illustrate the methodology, it is applied to the case of household adoption of dynamic energy tariffs, resulting in an abstract conceptual model adaptable to local contexts. The review reveals a lack of consensus on modeled tariffs but highlights the significance of tariff complexity, relative advantage, household heterogeneity, and various agent properties. It also identifies potential improvements in model fundamentals, particularly spatial modeling. The developed process model focuses on the stages ‘knowledge’, ‘decision’, and ‘reevaluation’. The article contributes by presenting a comprehensive review scheme and delivering a concept-centered integrative review along with an explicit conceptual model derived from it.