Regression Modeling to Analyze Apartment Space Heating Demand and the Influence of Electrical Use Diversity

Don Hynek, Wisconsin Division of Energy

Keywords

Abstract

In assessing a cold-climate apartment building with suspected defects, it was realized that the sub-metered space heating data allowed analysis of energy use at a much finer scale than is typically possible. Regression analysis of all the energy consumption (space heating and electrical use) in the building was employed to better understand the building’s performance, and to isolate the location of a heating distribution defect, which was finally identified. In the process, we developed a new analysis method, useful information and a number of testable theories that more generally inform the process by which energy experts assess and evaluate energy use in apartment buildings. The data indicate the importance of accounting for tenant electrical use in building analysis. Data on the diversity of electrical use is included to demonstrate the magnitude of the challenge involved. The data further indicate that standard codes require space heating systems dramatically larger than actually needed. This suggests possibilities for improving the energy efficiency of multifamily buildings, while reducing their construction cost.