Advances in research and applications of energy-related occupant behavior in buildings

TLDR

Occupant behavior is a key driver of building energy use and a major source of uncertainty in energy prediction, yet current understanding is limited, leading to oversimplified models. This paper reviews the latest advances and remaining challenges in modeling occupant behavior and measuring its effect on building energy consumption. It highlights progress in data collection, analytical and modeling techniques, and simulation tools that illuminate the potential energy savings from occupant behavior.

Abstract

Occupant behavior is one of the major factors influencing building energy consumption and contributing to uncertainty in building energy use prediction and simulation. Currently the understanding of occupant behavior is insufficient both in building design, operation and retrofit, leading to incorrect simplifications in modeling and analysis. This paper introduced the most recent advances and current obstacles in modeling occupant behavior and quantifying its impact on building energy use. The major themes include advancements in data collection techniques, analytical and modeling methods, and simulation applications which provide insights into behavior energy savings potential and impact. There has been growing research and applications in this field, but significant challenges and opportunities still lie ahead.