Evaluating Energy Savings Potential in United States Residential Buildings

Abstract

There are currently many discussions on sustainability emphasizing the needs of infrastructure, lower energy consumption, durability, and recyclability. In the United States, residential buildings consume 22% of the country’s total energy and also are responsible for 22% of carbon dioxide emitted to the environment. The main objective of this research is determining the potential energy savings in residential buildings in the U.S. To find energy savings potential, the Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) was used. This dataset provides general information on condition of appliances and buildings components as well as energy consumption in residential buildings. Based on RECS, this study took a broad look at energy savings potential for space heating, air conditioning, refrigerators, freezers, and lighting in residential buildings. Results of this study indicate that 29% and 19% of energy used for space heating, space cooling can respectively be saved by improving building components such as glasses and thermal insulation. In addition, results of this study show that 5% of total electricity used in residential buildings is delivered to nonefficient refrigerators, freezers, and light bulbs. By realizing the aforementioned energy savings in buildings, not only will consumers pay less money for their energy bills, but also greenhouse gas emissions from buildings can be reduced. Also, results of this study can help decision makers allocate tax credits for different products in such a way as to encourage actions targeting higher energy savings.