Does measurement = energy saving?
Smart meters are a tool that have the greatest potential benefit for power utilities. What the benefit for consumers is and whether the investment is justified remains to be seen. Measurement does not automatically mean that savings will be obtained. Home owners are simply getting information about their consumption – whether this translates into long term repeatable savings. The research suggests that there is often an initial short term spike in energy savings, but after a 3-4 months consumer interest drops and the in home displays end up in the kitchen drawer. I read an interesting article which called this MTKD – mean time to kitchen drawer. I am all for measurement – but it is really on the first step. Real energy saving benefits are much more obtainable and sustainable through energy conservation measures, efficient lighting, weatherisation, smart thermostats, reducing standby power, timers / scheduling of loads etc. It appears to me that there is a disproportionate amount of res
