End-users’ capabilities and futures in the Dutch energy transition: the role of data-driven energy technology in social housing

• The study combines the capability approach and future studies to explore how DDET affects the capabilities of public tenants, emphasizing the role of energy literacy and future expectations. • The research highlights the importance of a holistic, user-centered approach to energy transitions and shows that technological solutions need to be aligned with and enhance the capabilities of public renters to be effective. • Energy literacy plays an important role in how effectively individuals use DDET. Limited energy literacy can lead to missed opportunities and stress, while strong energy literacy may help renters better anticipate and improve their quality of life. Data-driven energy technologies (DDET) are often framed as a panacea that will support the transition towards energy-neutrality by adjusting residents' energy practices. However, not all citizens seem to benefit equally from these technologies. To unpack how DDET influences citizens' capability to live a valuable life, we combine insights from the capability approach and future studies, addressing the following research question: "How does the use of DDET influence public renters’ capabilities, and what role do energy literacy and future expectations play in this relationship?" This research employs a qualitative approach, with two Dutch case studies: Public Renters of Net Zero-Energy Homes (NZEHs) and public renters in less energy-efficient homes provided with energy displays by their housing corporation. We used in-depth interviews and observations. The results underscore the necessity for a holistic, practice-based perspective on the energy transition, which takes on board end-users' perspectives on desirable futures. Technological solutions can only work effectively if they are accompanied by recognition and support of public renters' capabilities. Energy literacy is a crucial factor in how individuals use resources like DDET to achieve capabilities such as energy management and financial stability. Limited energy literacy, restricts meaningful resource use, creating stress and missed opportunities. Strong energy literacy can enable renters to anticipate multiple future scenarios, and enhance their quality of life.