ANALYSIS OF RESIDENTIAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION CHARACTERISTICS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN TWO CITIES IN CHINA AND THE U.S.

摘要

This study compares and analyzes residential energy use patterns of two dominant housing typologies in two sample cities in the U.S. and China (Houston, TX and Xiamen, China). The study developed four residential models to represent single-family-houses and multi-family-houses in both Houston and Xiamen using the building performance simulation tool, eQuest. The parameters of building physical characteristics and occupants' behaviors in these models were based on existing building codes, census data, government surveys, validated previous studies, and a household survey conducted in Xiamen, China. The results of the simulation show the opportunities to increase Chinese residential energy efficiency. The research outcomes indicate that the low energy efficiency of building envelopes and systems in Chinese houses are a major issue in Chinese residential buildings. Avoiding the potential increase in energy use in the Chinese residential sector requires taking steps to improve the efficiency of building envelopes, systems, and appliances. The conclusions of the research provide Chinese energy conservation policy-makers as well as developers and companies with references. The research also provides the foundation for future studies aiming to improve the energy efficiency of Chinese housing.