Standby Power in the Residential Sector in Canada and Future Trends

Anna Zyzniewski, Office of Energy Efficiency, Natural Resources Canada

Keywords

Abstract

Standby power is defined as electricity used by consumer equipment, which is not being used or is in the off-mode. Electronic appliances such as televisions, VCR’s and audio equipment all consume electricity while in the standby mode. Their cumulative effect can be substantial. In 2001, the International Energy Agency (IEA) recognized the increasing challenge that standby power poses and launched an initiative to reduce standby power consumption. This initiative has gained considerable attention worldwide. Many countries are investigating ways to reduce standby consumption.

This paper addresses standby power consumption trends and potential energy savings in Canada. This work utilizes a bottom-up approach with the National Energy End-Use Database and a simulator designed for the residential sector. Data for standby household consumption was derived from a 2001 study carried out in 75 Canadian homes.

Household growth forecast is used to estimate standby power consumption. The simulation is performed over the 2002 to 2025 period, where a One-Watt scenario option is tested and potential energy savings and GHG reductions are measured. Regional differences of this scenario were examined. The One-Watt scenario assumes that all consumer electronics will operate at One-Watt standby power.

The main findings show that by 2010 with a One-Watt strategy, Canada could save up to 1.1 Mt in GHG and 637 MW in required capacity, which could save at least $400 million.