AbstractsPhysics

IDE Energy Challenge:

by J.M. Doolaard




Institution: Delft University of Technology
Department:
Year: 2015
Keywords: sustainability; practice theory; behavioural change; design
Record ID: 1241596
Full text PDF: http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:3dd3c42c-c228-4f63-882c-ea3a425e6b67


Abstract

In 2013 Delft signed the E-deal, an Energy-deal in which is stated that the city Delft needs to be energy neutral in 2050. TU Delft is one of the organisations that joined the challenge as well. This was the starting point of this graduation project. This master thesis presents the design process of the IDE Energy Challenge Network, a network that aims at changing the energy consuming behaviour of IDE occupants. The elements of the network and the entire design serve as a starting point, research tool and source of inspiration for TU Delft to actively involve its occupants in the environmental challenge. With the aid of literature resources it became more clear on where energy is wasted, why it is wasted and how behaviour can be changed to conserve energy. The goal was to design a network for the IDE faculty, so the broad perspective was narrowed to the IDE faculty energy culture. Observations, interviews and more research showed that the use of heating, lighting, laptops, windows and sun blinds had the largest energy saving potential. These activities are translated in explicit and implicit interventions: an energy feedback icon (designed with the aid of six master students), a social glue, a translation of CO2 emissions and triggers in the immediate working environment of occupants. The icon was elaborated and prototyped and triggers focussed on lighting and heating use were implemented in an open workspace in combination with a social motivation. The idea behind the icon is valuable for the occupants; it will trigger the discussion about energy-use and can give information that people need to change their behaviour. In addition the trigger for the heating system supported occupants to understand the system better and the social motivation had impact, though the light intervention needs to be researched more. These insights are integrated in the future plan for the IDE faculty that recommends what elements need to be implemented and when and how to involve the occupants of TU Delft in reaching the goal.