Ria Tomar ’27, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Ria Tomar ’27

Major

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Project Title

Residential Energy Engagement

Presentation Link

View Ria's Presentation

Minor(s): Cognitive Science, Sustainable Energy

I explored the decision making processes that influence electric vehicle (EV) users’ charging behaviors. My focus was on understanding how decision modes influence EV users’ enrollment and continued participation in residential EV charging programs. These programs, introduced by electric utilities, are designed to manage the growing energy demand from residential EV charging. Residential EV charging programs are relatively new and insights into EV users’ decision modes can help utilities improve communication and engagement strategies. I designed a series of studies to examine the influence of decision modes on EV users’ choices regarding these programs. I developed several survey designs to explore important questions, such as how different decision modes can prime users and enhance their motivation to enroll and participate in these programs. I also helped plan a qualitative study to understand how local residents attending an eCommuter event in the Princeton area would design communications in order to improve outreach for residential EV charging programs. I plan to run these studies this fall. Seeing this project develop from its inception was very fulfilling. Engaging with research at the intersection of behavioral science and energy has piqued my interest in environmental law and policy.