Using Data Analytics to Understand Electrical Consumption Patterns of Residential Buildings

Buildings are complex systems whose energy consumption depends on the interplay of multiple physical and human factors. This paper explored the performance of single-family detached dwellings using the tools of data analytics. The goals of this work were to understand and eventually to predict electrical energy consumption in order to develop strategies to reduce both peak power consumption and annual energy consumption in the residential building sector. Results showed that the year in which a dwelling was built combined with primary heating source is a significant predictor of electricity use.