Essentially it is that same old "tragedy of the commons" problem that has lead us to this stage altogether. From the point of view of the mass consumer conservation and energy issues are problems of the society, not their personal problems. Within our current set of values nothing forces anyone to change his/her ways until the whole train hits its natural limits, after which the individuals will be forced to change either because of limited affordability (read much higher prices than today) or by rationing.

Therefore I admire your efforts for promoting energy awareness. This is the thing we need to start changing first - ourselves. I just don't believe in the ability of society to change that fast beacause of the dreamworld most people live and because of the so much vested interests to keep the status quo. On the other hand if power down turns to be too painful or too fast, I expect people to go on the other extreme - trashing every bit of environment we have left. Clearly we have to approach the problem at both sides. Renewables of course will help, but the elephant in the room is nuclear - I know that technically we can make it right but I'm worried by that same stupidity that brought us here to start working the other way if we wait too long.