Comparative analysis of monitored and self-reported data on electricity use

Although demand side management as a concept is broadly accepted as a key mechanism for levelling peaks in residential electricity demand, the details of optimal implementation are far from determined. While some direct benefits can be gained through smart control systems, the role of behaviour change is yet to be fully understood. This paper presents a comparative study of monitored household electricity demand data of electric hot water cylinders and household occupants' self-reported activities related to use of hot water. We find value and complementarity in both approaches; one does not replace the other when both technical and human interactions need to be understood.