Impact of Low-Income Occupant Behavior on Energy Consumption in Hot-Humid Climates

Abstract

Within the residential sector, the low-income segment accounts for a significant amount of energy consumption. In addition to poor housing conditions in the low-income sector, occupant behavior is one of the most important drivers of energy performance. This paper examines specific cases of behavior in low-income housing in hot-humid climates. Given the scant literature available on this subject, this study uses both quantitative and qualitative approaches to concurrently analyze both (1) subjective perceptions of low-income occupants and (2) real field data. Using principal component analysis, a wide range of behaviors was categorized into nine independent factors. Then, using multiple regression analysis, those factors were ranked in terms of their impact on household energy bills. The results revealed that the top five behavioral factors that have a significant impact on the energy bills of low-income occupants are the following (in order of importance): (1) cooling set point during summer; (2) energy-saving practices/behaviors of households; (3) occupant behavior with respect to indoor environment quality; (4) occupant behavior with respect to lighting and electrical appliances; and (5) heating set point during winter. The findings from this research will contribute to a better understanding of the impact occupant behavior in the low-income housing sector has on energy consumption.