09-09-2017, 11:40 AM
We review the literature on the application of feedback methods to save energy in the home. Particular attention is paid to electronic feedback through meters and smart displays, or "energy consumption indicators" (ECI). Previous studies have not focused on individual household appliances, but this paper presents the results of a UK field study in 44 households that consider domestic cooking: compares the effectiveness of providing information based on energy saving use with electronic energy consumption feedback via ECIs designed specifically for this research. Twelve households of the Control Group were monitored for a period of at least 12 months and this revealed an average daily consumption of electric cooker of 1.30 kWh. Subsequently, over a minimum monitoring period of 2 months, 14 of 31 households achieved energy savings of more than 10% and six of them achieved savings of more than 20%. The average reduction for households using an ICE was 15%, while those who received prior information reduced their electricity consumption on average by only 3%. Associated behavioral changes and the importance of providing regular feedback during use are identified. It is recommended that more attention be paid to design optimization and the evaluation of the use of energy consumption indicators in the home, in order to maximize the associated energy saving potential.