Households

Considerable energy savings can be achieved in households.

The following are common measures that can contribute to a reduction in household energy consumption:

• Using energy-efficient and low-energy appliances (refrigerators, freezers, TVs, computers, washing machines, dishwashers etc.).
• In cooling of indoor spaces:
  • Employing more efficient air-conditioning systems and units.
  • Better controlling air conditioning systems and units by installing controllers and thermostats.
  • Using individual air conditioning units rather than centralised systems.
  • Using alternative, low consumption cooling methods (e.g. evaporative coolers).
  • Using fans where appropriate.
• Improving the condition of building fabric (insulation) and installing new glazing.
• Heating water with a domestic solar thermal water heating system rather than with electricity or fossil fuels.
• Cooking with gas rather than with electricity.
• Improving lighting systems by:
  • Installing LED lamps.
  • Installing lighting system sensors:  sensors which control lighting levels, dimmers, presence/motion sensors.
• Placing refrigerators in cool locations, not next to a cooker or another source of heat.
• Monitoring energy consumption by monitoring displays which show residents how much energy is being used and where.

Many countries require that household appliances have energy efficiency labels. This example is of an EU energy label for a refrigerator. On this label scale, class A is the most efficient. However, remember that large low-energy refrigerator with a high-efficiency rating, can consume more energy than a smaller less efficient refrigerator.

Improving household energy efficiency means that a smaller PV system can be installed, usually at a lower price.