The problem of reducing domestic energy consumption is a hot topic in the pervasive computing and CHI communities, though it is also one with a long and varied history. In this survey we give a brief overview of the history and current state of four approaches to this problem, from feedback-oriented and technology-centric systems found in pervasive computing, to social factors research and economics-based studies. We aim to provide an introductory set of references that allows readers to explore the rich background of this topic more deeply and broadly, and complement more focused reviews already published.