OfficeWise: energy feedback in office workplaces

摘要

This paper presents the approach, progress and intermediateresults from a project on energy feedback in office workplacescarried out in Sweden in 2011–2014. A system of three energyvisualization prototypes targeting office workers has been designedand implemented in an office workplace. Feedback isgiven both on individual basis (in a PC application) and oncollective basis (on a screen in the reception and by an ambientrepresentation in the lunchroom). A measurement system providesdetailed data on individual electricity use, temperature,ventilation and presence. The project aims at engaging officeworkers to more energy efficient behaviour by supplying toolsto raise the awareness and ability to take action, but also toimplement energy feedback in organizational processes. Themain goal is permanent behavioural changes, resulting in 50 %electricity reduction in individual office rooms.The project is built on a participatory approach. The visualizationtools were designed in collaboration with office workersusing interviews, cultural probes, co-creation workshops etc.Designing new organizational strategies and action plans willinclude further workshops and co-creation with staff and management.In spring 2014, a one-week challenge was conducted amongthe office workers to estimate the energy saving potential. Theresults show an average reduction of 32 % compared to a representative‘normal’ week. On an annual basis, the savingscorrespond to 65 kWh per office room or 17 % of the totalelectricity use. In general, the participants found the challengeinteresting and took the opportunity to look over theirhabits.Throughout the project, office workers have stressed thatthe management lacks focus on and appreciation for energyefficiency. The next step is therefore to analyse how energyfeedback can be implemented in organizational processes toachieve long-term changes in energy-related routines and behaviour.