The effectiveness of current smart home technologies to improve energy efficiency
Richard Smith, Loughborough University, UK.
This thesis explores the barriers to domestic energy consumption in the context of the implementation of smart monitors.
Smart metering, or demand side response, helps consumers to manage and adjust their energy usage. It heralds the creation of a smart grid infrastructure, helping to reduce energy load on the national networks. However, there are considerable shortfalls in current smart monitors, which may present future challenges to effective demand side response.
This paper reviews current smart monitors, highlighting the need for design improvements to facilitate sustainable changes in user behaviour.
This paper was the Highly Commended Winner, Undergraduate Dissertation Award, CIOB International Innovation & Research Award, 2014.
The judges said, “This is a well-written and well-presented dissertation. It sets out clear objectives which were delivered throughout to demonstrate the barriers to domestic energy consumption reduction through the use of smart meters. Both quantitative and qualitative data were well analysed and synthesised to draw the research findings and conclusions.”
--CIOB
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.