Effect of social network type on building occupant energy use

The energy demands of buildings have been shown to vary considerably due to differences in occupant energy use behavior. In buildings, occupants are subject to social pressures and influences which help moderate what is and what is not acceptable behavior, including energy use behavior. This transmission of social influence and the creation of social norms occur through social networks. Recent research has examined changes in occupant energy use behavior due to social influence through social networks, but has done so considering only one network type at a time. Therefore, this study investigates the impact of network type on occupant energy use behavior and consumption. Agent-based modeling is applied to explore the effect of network type for two separate administrative actions on reducing energy consumption: increasing social connectivity and implementing environmental champions. Results indicate that social network type is not significant in determining mean energy use change, but is when considering the time required for the system to reach equilibrium, through convergence or grouping. Additionally, increasing social connectivity has undesired effects without the presence of environmental champions; however, with them, increasing social connectivity can significantly decrease the time required to realize energy savings and amplifies the reductions.