Efficient Households : Energy efficiency in small apartments in Stockholm

Abstract: The energy consumption of the first world has reached unexpected heights, and is increasing every day. Because of this, energy efficiency has become a hot subject, both on a small and large scale. Every individual has a possibility to improve their energy efficiency and energy use alike by substantial amounts, and should act on this for the sake of the environment. The report begins with a study of different regulations and standards regarding energy efficiency. After this, a literature study is conducted regarding the latest available technology in all areas of home appliances. Finally, a field study is conducted on an apartment in Stockholm to find out how much energy that actually can be saved, and what the economic results are from this. The result shows that in general, it isn’t economically viable to upgrade to the latest energy efficient technology within home appliances, but that one has to consider the environmental gains as incitement for action. Approximately 10% of the total annual energy consumption could be saved by changing all machinery and functions in the house, except the heating, ventilation and air conditioning part.