Energy efficiency inside out

Panel: 2. Policy: governance, design, implementation and evaluation challenges

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Sirje Pädam, WSP Sweden, Sweden
Agneta Persson, Anthesis Group, Sweden
Oskar Kvarnström, International Energy Agency, France
Ola Larsson, WSP Sweden, Sweden

Abstract

This research applies a multi-disciplinary approach for studying the relationships between energy supply, energy efficiency measures and indoor environment. Stakeholder interviews and a review of existing literature reveal that residents only occasionally are involved, and energy companies are rarely consulted when energy efficiency strategies and measures are implemented in residential buildings. The implication is that added value to indoor environment resulting from energy efficiency improvements is invisible to property owners and other investors. Similarly, there is limited understanding of the implications on district heating production.

Most energy efficiency measures render positive impacts on indoor environment given that they are carried in a correct way. Insulation measures and heating distribution control measures have the best potential to improve the indoor environment in a cold climate.

The intuitive conclusion from a heat production perspective implying that energy savings captured during the winter season are more attractive, as they lead to a more even energy production, is often but not always true. District heating systems based on biomass are affected differently by energy-efficiency measures than district heating systems with waste heat as base load. Electricity generation in combined heat and power plants connected to the district heating system also affects the environmental and economic outcome.

Stakeholder participation can create synergies. With greater commitment to implementing energy efficiency strategies in the residential building sector, energy companies can assist their customers to implement measures that benefit residents, property owners and the company at the same time. The incentives for property owners include lower energy bills and environmentally sound heating.