Energy experiment on Dutch island Texel
December 10, 2014 | 1 min read
TIAS researchers work together with energy provider Alliander in a large scale experiment on the Dutch island of Texel. Wall displays show actual energy consumption to over three hundred households. Does this insight affect energy use and how can smart technology further a sustainable solution?
An experiment in three phases
The Texel experiment is carried out in three phases. In phase 1, residents receive relatively simple information through KIEK, a small wall screen that displays actual energy consumption every 15 minutes. In phase 2 starts three months more information is added. The energy consumption per residence is scored against other residences in the neighborhood. In addition, residents receive tips to save energy in order to match or beat the neighborhood’s average consumption levels. In the third and final phase, KIEK informs residents about fluctuating energy prices throughout the day. They are invited to postpone their consumption until energy is at a lower price. Wind and solar energy is generated in waves and in this way, it can be used optimally at peak moments.
Energy saving behavior
Erdal Aydin (TIAS), Dirk Brounen (TIAS) and Nils Kok (Maastricht University) have already studied the results of phases 1 and 2. Their results show that the information in phase 2 (scoring the neighbors), leads to an energy reduction of over 3 percent. Savings appears to be strongest in households with a higher education and households with a strong motivation to join the experiment. The information supplied by KIEK can contribute to energy saving behavior in households. Especially amongst households that understand information quickly and well and households that want to understand information.
Stay informed?
With support from the Dutch Home Ministery, this research will continue in months to come. We will research the data in the third phase and carefully map further cross-references and/or overlaps with household backgrounds. Are you interested in the outcome? Send us an email and we will send you the complete publication as soon as it is completed in Spring 2015.