Occupants’ behavioural diversity regarding the indoor environment in social housing. Case study in Northern Spain

Abstract

Previous research has shown that differences in preferences, habits, and uses can exist in buildings with similar characteristics, which can influence building performance, energy efficiency, and the well-being of occupants. Among this diversity, those residing in social housing have specific socio-economic and cultural characteristics. This study aims to provide evidence of the diversity of thermal preferences and heating-related behaviours in public social rental housing. It also seeks to develop a methodology for identifying behavioural and occupancy patterns that can be applied in building simulation programs and building stock management. To identify occupancy and heating patterns, quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods were applied. The data was collected from a variety of sources, including sensors and surveys. Advanced statistical methods were used to analyse the data and identify patterns and trends. The study was conducted in 58 dwellings of a public social rental housing building in northern Spain. The results showed a lack of association between perceived and monitored thermal comfort. Additionally, variability in the use of the dwelling has been found among similar socioeconomic profiles. The analysis of behavioural diversity revealed six clusters based on energy consumption behaviour, including occupancy patterns and heating usage. The patterns obtained can be integrated into building performance simulation programs, resulting in a more nuanced and accurate representation of energy consumption patterns. Moreover, these patterns can provide valuable insight into the diversity of energy consumption behaviours. This can be leveraged to unlock new opportunities for energy savings, efficiency gains, and enhancing the well-being of occupants across a variety of use cases.