The Future Of Energy Efficient Homes
When it comes to residential energy usage, the previous century has seen incredible changes as relative wealth and technical advances prompted the development of new gadgets and behaviours. The digital revolution has quickened the pace of change even more in the recent decade. Changes in energy use have already altered how we use our homes, but what will this imply for our homes in the next 20 years?
Today, we can already glimpse the future. Smart metre installation is a good place to start for increasingly connected houses. The increased connection allows us to manage more services in our houses as well as monitor energy consumption, allowing us to become more environmentally responsible customers.
Clean Energy Is Becoming Mainstream
Low-carbon energy solutions are also becoming more common in the household setting. Solar panels are becoming more widespread on the rooftops of New Zealand houses, companies, and government buildings, and low-carbon heating solutions are becoming more popular, thanks in part to the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive scheme.
Where things may alter in the future with renewable power generation is a larger push to include energy-generating devices into the structure of dwellings. Solar tiles are already a well-established technology, but solar windows and maybe even solar paint might be the next big thing.
Creating A Network And Regulating Demand
One of the most pressing concerns in the near future is managing energy demand and matching it to available supply. We will be able to combine green energy generation and usage in many locations around the home and on the go as a result of technological convergence. The energy source for a home and the household’s electric car, for example, are no longer considered as distinct entities connected solely by a plug, but as partners in a reciprocal relationship. When a car is not in use, it may store power to be utilised by the home later – a type of battery that is unique in its mobility.
Less transportable energy storage alternatives are also generating more interest. With financial incentives for producing clean energy dwindling, a change in focus to getting the most out of renewables by storing extra energy for use when demand is higher is expected. We’ve already discussed the benefits and drawbacks of home energy storage, and with huge new competitors like Duracell and Tesla joining the house battery industry, this is a technology to file under ‘dead cert’ for any image of future homes.
The homes of the future will most likely seem similar to those of today, but with more technology to achieve greater efficiency. Where there are new aspects, it is critical that individuals have access to knowledge and assistance in order for ‘the new normal’ in New Zealand housing to achieve the desired levels of energy efficiency. Contact Black Fox Electrical today to learn more about our electrical and energy solutions!