Energy consumption of buildings and occupant behavior. An investigation in Mediterranean climatic conditions

The article illustrates the results of a study regarding occupancy profiles and energy needs of residential buildings located in a Mediterranean climate (southern Italy). Different parameters are collected by using surveys: data from bills, characteristics of buildings, family composition and practices, heating, cooling and DHW systems, control strategies. The data processing is used in order to identify occupancy scenarios and representative case studies. The influence of the occupancy profiles on thermal performances of selected buildings is investigated by energy simulations comparing thermal losses and gains obtained by means of the application of Standard procedures contained in UNI/TS 11300-1 and real patterns. Heating energy needs and comfort parameters are studied considering the variables influenced by occupant behavior: set point temperature, ventilation, lighting, appliances and shading systems.