Endogenous transformation of exogenous effects in a system dynamics model of heating, ventilation and rebound

Energy efficiency measures do not fully translate into energy consumption reductions because occupants increase their dwellings' internal temperatures rather than only reducing energy bills. This effect, known as the rebound effect, has been empirically confirmed and is usually attributed to occupants’ increase of thermal comfort. Based on system dynamics modelling, we offer a different and complementary explanation that shows how rebound may occur when occupants feel thermally comfortable throughout. The interaction of their desired behaviour with other practices, such as cooking, explains how shifts in their desired temperature may occur. We thus contribute to the understanding of domestic practices related to energy efficiency and rebound. In addition, our study shows how rebound occurs through the transformation of exogenous inputs through endogenous feedback mechanisms. While system dynamics emphasises continuous modelling and endogeneity, our study thus also motivates future research into the analysis of the endogenous transformation of time-varying inputs in system dynamics.

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