Main physical environmental drivers of occupant behaviour with regard to space heating energy demand

Several studies have highlighted the significant gap between the predicted energy performance of buildings and their measured actual performance. Uncertainties regarding behaviour of building occupants are one of the key factors limiting the ability of energy simulation tools to accurately predict real building energy requirements .
The paper focuses on the particular topics of space heating energy demand related to the occupants habits of adjusting heating set-points. The parameters influencing the user interaction with the heating control system are analyzed in literature for residential buildings, and the resulted influencing factors are illustrated.
Statistical analysis of data coming from measurement carried out in Danish dwellings are performed to infer the probability of adjusting the thermostatic radiators valves and to determine the relationship between the (indoor and outdoor) environmental conditions and the occupants’ heating set-point preferences. The paper aims at providing a reliable basis for a more accurate description of control action models in performance simulation applications.