Abstract
The Smart Energy Research Lab (SERL) Observatory dataset described here comprises half-hourly and daily electricity and gas data, SERL survey data, Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) input data and 24 local hourly climate reanalysis variables from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) for over 13,000 households in Great Britain (GB). Participants were recruited in September 2019, September 2020 and January 2021 and their smart meter data are collected from up to one year prior to sign up. Data collection will continue until at least August 2022, and longer if funding allows. Survey data relating to the dwelling, appliances, household demographics and attitudes were collected at sign up. Data are linked at the household level and UK-based academic researchers can apply for access within a secure virtual environment for research projects in the public interest. This is a data descriptor paper describing how the data were collected, the variables available and the representativeness of the sample compared to national estimates. It is intended to be a guide for researchers working with or considering using the SERL Observatory dataset, or simply looking to learn more about it.
Highlights
In 2019, the residential sector was responsible for 21% of UK carbon emissions [1]and the UK has committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050
In this paper we report on the Smart Energy Research Laboratory (SERL) Observatory dataset, which has recruited over 13,000 Great Britain (GB) households who have consented to collection of their smart meter data for research purposes
The SERL Observatory dataset comprises 13,321 households recruited to date with linked daily and half-hourly gas and electricity use, household survey, weather and dwelling energy performance data
Summary
The UK has committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Understanding domestic energy consumption and going forward will support the transition to net zero. Identifying households in fuel poverty, or those at risk of missing out on green policy incentives, would help to ensure a just transition that benefits sections of society who might otherwise be left behind [4]. To understand these and other related issues, a nationally-representative empirical database of building, occupant and high-resolution energy data is imperative [5,6,7]
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