Determinants of electricity consumption in Dutch dwellings

Abstract

This research aimed to define the influence of lighting and appliance use on electricity consumption in Dutch dwellings, and identify determinants of use. Data were collected via questionnaires completed by 323 dwellings in Winter 2008, in the Netherlands. Three regression models were built using direct (number of lighting and appliances, duration of use) and indirect determinants (presence, dwelling-household-economic-system (DHES) characteristics); one based on the duration of appliance use and presence, one on the number of appliances and DHES characteristics, and one on the total duration of appliance use and DHES characteristics.In the first model, total duration of appliance use explained 37%, presence in rooms 14%, and combined model 37% of variance in electricity consumption. Study/hobby rooms emerged important in this model, whereas living room and kitchen did not. In the second model, number of appliances explained 21% of the variance in electricity consumption alone and 42% combined with dwelling/household characteristics. Household size, dwelling type, use of dryer, washing cycles, and number of showers appeared as significant determinants, of which the last revealing a comfort related dimension of electricity use. The third model of total duration of appliance use and dwelling/household characteristics explained 58% of the variance in electricity consumption.