Energy information at home: An analysis and policy projection of the rebound effect and U.S. smart grid

Abstract

This dissertation examines residential energy behavior through three studies. First, a meta-analysis of the residential rebound effect, excluding transportation studies, finds an average rebound effect size of 42%. Fixed effects meta-regression findings suggest rebound effect estimates may be impacted by participant selection methods, availability of financial incentives, and implemented measures. The second study finds current residential smart grid deployment, as determined by Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) installations, correlated with reduced average utility household electricity use. The predicted decrease (0.9% reduction at 100% AMI penetration in the residential sector) is lower than some experimental research findings, suggesting current smart grid information feedback may not be fully deployed, optimally designed, or readily accessible. Lastly, twelve smart grid scenarios were developed by varying price elasticity and rebound effect in the National Energy Modeling System to project possible long term impacts of a national residential smart grid. These scenarios are projected to realize energy and environmental benefits over the long term. Residential sector energy savings from are greater than all sector savings, with projected energy increases in the commercial, industrial, and transportation sectors. This suggests cross-sector policies may benefit smart grid implementation.