Energy pattern generator - understanding the effect of user behaviour on energy systems

Panel: Panel 2 Technology and Behaviour

Authors:
J. Paauw, Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN), Petten, the Netherlands
B. Roossien, M.B.C., TNO Built Environment and Geosciences, Delft, the Netherlands
Aries O.Guerra Santin
OTB Research Institute for Housing, Urban and Mobility Studies, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands

Abstract

To understand and research the effect of user behaviour on energy performance, an Energy Pattern Generator (EPG) is being developed. This software tool produces high resolution electricity and heat demand patterns for five different household types. In addition, energy consumption is related to five common types of dwellings in the Netherlands. Input for the EPG is provided by measured energy demand profiles of common household appliances and statistical data from time-of-use surveys.

Internal heat gains due to appliances play an important role in the energy balance of energy efficient buildings. These gains are however often simplified in today’s tools into (at best) fixed weekly schedules. The EPG provides a more realistic representation of (the variation in) occupant behaviour. Varying internal gains are calculated for several user profiles, based on variations in the use of domestic appliances and the household occupancy by the residents. Using the EPG as a “plug-in”, building simulation can determine whether new building concepts are ‘user proof’.

The EPG is also of importance in the design of (intelligent) electricity grids as it provides dynamics in the grid’s loads. The EPG provides insight in actual loads which can be scaled up to i.e. district level.

Key words: Building Future, Innovative Building Concepts; Energy Pattern Generator (EPG); User Behaviour; Household Profiles; Energy Consumption.