The Impact of Hedonism on Domestic Hot Water Energy Demand for Showering − The Case of the Schanzenfest, Hamburg

The causes of variation in energy demand for hot water in showering or bathing within the same dwelling is often difficult to understand. This study followed the activities of a study group living as a large household and working on projects in architecture studios. Consumption diaries for lifestyle choices and showering times was triangulated with electric meter data to examine energy use behaviours and explore changes in hot water demand. This occurred over a two week period that included a street festival, the

Schanzenfest,

on the weekend. The study found that total energy demand amongst the same group could double depending on the amount of hedonism, or the seeking of fun and self-gratification, on display the previous evening. Therefore, this paper proposes that the increase of opportunities to have fun and the lack of structure on the weekend significantly increase domestic energy demand compared to a more structured weekday and should be the subject of further research.