A framework for the study of householders’ engagement with low-carbon energy demand practices in dwellings with grid-connected photovoltaic energy systems

Fernandez Goycoolea, Juan P., Zapata-Lancaster, Gabriela ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3239-131X and Whitman, Christopher ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7779-6930 2020. A framework for the study of householders’ engagement with low-carbon energy demand practices in dwellings with grid-connected photovoltaic energy systems. Presented at: World Sustainable Built Environment Conference: Beyond 2020, Online, 2-4 November 2020.

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Abstract

This paper introduces a framework to assess householders' interaction with grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems in domestic buildings, in an attempt to research the question To what extent the engagement of occupants in energy demand management practices is relevant for the operational CO2 emissions reductions in dwellings with on-grid PV systems? The focus is placed on identifying the engagement with low-carbon operation practices and its relevance for final CO2 emissions from electricity consumption. Specifically, PV electricity self-consumption and energy conservation practices are studied. To this extent, the research builds on i) the energy services approach and ii) the social practices approach to domestic energy demand. The context of owner-occupied houses which have been retrofitted with PV installations in South Wales, UK is taken as an example. Methods: After a brief conceptual review on domestic energy demand, a mixed-methods framework for the study of householders' engagement with low-carbon energy demand practices is presented, comprising three key aspects: a) the conditions for the practices to occur, b) frequency with which householders enact the practices, and c) the estimation of final operational CO2 emissions performance. Results: As part of ongoing research work, a framework to study households' engagement with low-carbon energy demand practices in buildings with grid-connected PV technology is proposed; focusing on the obtention of a socio-technical lecture to complement other sources of in-use assessment data. Conclusions: Besides single case-studies, the framework has potential applications in recognising and grouping households' engagement profiles. In this way, it is suggested that the framework might facilitate the analysis when extensive assessments are needed; such as in public policy evaluation or demand response studies. Grant Support: This work is funded by CONICYT PFCHA/DOCTORADO BECAS CHILE/2018 - 72180375

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Status:	In Press
Schools:	Architecture
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GF Human ecology. Anthropogeography N Fine Arts > NA Architecture T Technology > TK Electrical engineering. Electronics Nuclear engineering
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	6 August 2020
Date of Acceptance:	17 June 2020
Last Modified:	07 Nov 2022 10:55
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/133977

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