Energy Consumption and Environmental Impact Assessment of the Energy Efficient Houses in Toronto, Canada

Abstract

The two identical energy efficient houses, “Energy Star” House (EH) and “Green” House (GH), located in Ontario were chosen to investigate the effectiveness of energy efficiency measures in dwellings. EH was built based on the Energy Star standard while GH had a number of additional energy savings and sustainable green features. Both houses’ energy consumption were simulated and their utility bills weather normalized by using HOT2000 building energy simulation software and Princeton Scorekeeping Method (PRISM). Although GH was expected to consume less energy than EH, considering GH's more energy efficient mechanical system and building envelope, this study showed that EH consumed less energy than GH (annual energy consumption of EH is 44% less than GH). Further investigation on occupants’ behavior and usage of the both houses using a survey showed clearly that having energy efficient systems do not necessarily lead to lower energy consumption.