As part of an effort to scale markets markets for super-efficient appliances, the Efficiency for Access Coalition partnered with 60 Decibels to explore the benefits and potential challenges experienced by customers using electric pressure cookers (EPCs) in 2020-2022. During this time, we conducted interviews with end-consumers to verify the purchase of eligible products, and also create additional consumer insights.
In 2023, Loughborough University, managing the Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) programme for FCDO, commissioned 60 Decibels to conduct a further study with customers we had interviewed prior to gather additional insights over time.
60 Decibels conducted remote surveys through phone interviews to capture key indicators. We looked at customer profile, experience, satisfaction, challenges, and impact at different time points. Understanding the wants, needs, experiences, and satisfaction of end customers is strategic information for this nascent technology.
From 2020-2023, 60 Decibels has conducted 1,300+ interviews with 700 customers of 5 electric pressure cooker companies in Kenya. Here’s what they had to say:
Nearly all customers are first-time users (92%). 9 in 10 reports say they couldn’t find a good alternative for the EPC. This suggests companies are providing a scarce product.
2. EPC customers are experiencing consistent positive impacts over time.
In the baseline study, 94% of customers said they were motivated to purchase the EPC to save time. During follow-up 1, customers were saving 91 minutes per day and now they are saving 106 minutes per day because of the EPC.
3. There is a high level of customer satisfaction among the EPC customers and the majority rate the EPC good value for money.
The follow-up 2 study shows a very good Net Promoter Score of 65. Among Promoters (68%), 66% highlight time savings as a top reason they would recommend the EPC. 9 in 10 customers find the EPC a good or very good value for money.
4. EPC companies can focus on expanding the benefits to less well-off customers and resolving the customers’ challenges.
EPCs are being accessed by relatively wealthier customers with 28% living below the Kenya national average. With an Inclusivity Rate of 0.58, EPC companies appear to be underserving low-income customers in Kenya. This is likely to be linked to the electrification rate in Kenya.
