Residential Sector Energy Demand Estimation for a Single-family Dwelling: Dynamic Simulation and Energy Analysis

Detailed demand profiles for the residential sector are an important prerequisite for the improvement of building energy efficiency and the development of polygeneration systems. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide a generic pattern for each energy demand required for a single-family dwelling. The data of electricity, domestic hot water and freshwater were obtained through literature reported methods of demand profile estimation, whereas heating and cooling have been estimated by TRNSYS software simulation. All methods provide energy consumption profiles with 1-hour time step along 1-year period. Daily, weekly and yearly results are presented. The total dwelling consumption amounts to 3,866 kWh/y of electricity, 941 kWh/y of heating, 1,450 kWh/y of cooling, 41 m(3)/y or 2,090 kWh/y of domestic hot water and 110 m(3)/y of freshwater. Primary energy saving can achieve up to 13,917 kWh/y in case of renewable energy use and a higher comfort level is felt by the users during summer.

Automated summary

Detailed demand profiles for the residential sector are crucial for improving building energy efficiency and developing polygeneration systems. This study provides a generic pattern for energy demand in single-family dwellings, with detailed data on electricity, heating, cooling, domestic hot water, and freshwater consumption. Renewable energy use can lead to significant primary energy savings of up to 13,917 kWh/y, accompanied by increased user comfort during the summer months.