Energy demand model to support the definition of sustainable energy systems: residential sector

Abstract

A bottom - up energy demand model that reflects the use of various energy vectors to satisfy regional energy requirements is provided as a tool to promote sustainable e nergy planning at a regional level. The model is used to identify t echnology policy options that may improve energy efficiency and take full advantage of endogenous en ergy resources. The model considers building geometric and thermodynamic characteristics, climatic data and technology penetration information and is calib rated with top - down information from national statistics. It is applied in a Portuguese municipality – Odemira, and a set of sixteen technology option scenarios are examined regarding energy consumption and CO 2 emissions. The results obtained show that a demand driven model is critical to identify technology options that may contribute to simultaneously improve energy efficiency and to maximize the use of renewable and endogenous energy and therefore to increase local added value to the regional economy.