Energy labels in Dutch dwellings - their actual energy consumption and implications for reduction targets

Panel: 7. Monitoring and evaluation

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Daša Majcen, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Laure Itard, OTB Research Institute, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands
Henk Visscher, OTB Research Institute, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands

Abstract

In Europe the Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) prescribes a compulsory energy labelling of existing dwellings. In the Netherlands a national labelling scheme is applied since 2008. The label is based on a theoretical calculation of the gas and electricity consumptions accounting for the physical characteristics of the dwelling, its heating, ventilation and cooling systems and standard use characteristics. In addition to the label, occupants are provided since 2010 with the theoretical gas and electricity consumptions. This paper reports on a large scale study comparing labels and theoretical energy usage with data on actual energy usage. A database of about 200,000 labels was coupled with data from Statistics Netherlands on actual gas and electricity consumptions provided by energy companies. Discrepancies between the actual and theoretical energy usage were analysed. The study showed that the less efficient energy labels consume much less energy than predicted by the label, but on the other hand, dwellings with labels A and B consume more than predicted. The energy saving targets are examined to demonstrate that most energy reduction goals may not be achievable if actual energy consumption is taken as the basis for future consumption calculations instead of theoretical consumptions.