Abstract

Energy costs are a concern, given the rate of increase in energy costs. The unprecedented switch to electricity as a source of energy is reflected in the growth of the electric vehicle, solar pv panel and heat pump markets as consumers compete with reducing fossil energy consumption. This paper evaluates electricity usage in two households, namely Household A and Household B using energy kilowatt hour, power wattage and the outside weather temperatures. Both households are assessed over a 7-day period in which insights into daily electricity consumption are reviewed for any trends or spikes in electricity usage. With this approach it enables a household to action energy usage habits to be more economical and enhance the overall strategy for energy consumption management. The findings of this study in the 7-day assessment are that Household A utilizes more energy than Household B, although consideration needs to be given to the type of heating system, appliance usage, external weather elements, house occupancy and vacancy. It can be concluded that the higher energy consumption in Household A was largely influenced by a heat pump. Household A does have a stronger emphasis on energy efficiency than Household B (oil heating), in offering a constant temperature 24/7 for space heating and domestic hot water. There is no additional expenditure in Household A for fossil fuels or necessity on requiring a secondary heating source such as an open fire or stove. Additionally, Household B will need to adapt accordingly to address climate change by 2030 in reducing carbon emissions and target a high building energy rating to maximize cost savings.