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Chasing the negawatt: visualization for sustainable living
Lyn Bartram1, Johnny Rodgers, Kevin Muise
1School of Interactive Arts & Technology, Simon Fraser University, CA, USA. lyn@sfu.ca
IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications
|July 24, 2010
Summary
Understanding home energy use through visualization can significantly reduce consumption. This study explores effective energy data displays to encourage conservation and inform occupants, utilizing real-time feedback systems.
Area of Science:
- Energy and resource management
- Sustainable building design
- Human-computer interaction
Background:
- Energy consumption in buildings can be reduced through behavioral changes.
- The concept of the negawatt quantifies energy savings from efficiency.
- Visualization plays a key role in user engagement with energy data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate effective methods for visualizing home energy use data.
- To determine how visualizations can empower residents to manage energy consumption.
- To examine the integration of visualization into a larger information system for informed decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Case study of a net-zero solar-powered home (North House).
- Utilizing the Adaptive Living Interface System (ALIS) as an information backbone.
- Analysis of energy use data display and user interaction.
Main Results:
- Real-time energy use feedback through visualization encourages conservation.
- Effective data display is crucial for resident understanding and decision-making.
- Integration of visualization within an information system enhances energy management.
Conclusions:
- Visualization is a powerful tool for promoting energy conservation in homes.
- Tailored information systems and effective displays are vital for occupant engagement.
- Further research is needed to optimize visualization strategies for energy management.
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