We are compiling energy data on a variety of different topics at any given time. Most of our support for this work comes from the Department of Energy or the Environmental Protection Agency. Our current activity focuses on the following areas:

1. Ground source heat pumps in residences. The goal is to collect field data on the energy use and savings from the installation of ground source heat pumps. We have some excellent case studies in cold climates, but are looking for additional examples in warm climates (where cooling is a major factor). This project is supported by the Department of Energy.
   
2. "Northern Homes Compilation". This project involves comparing various indicators of energy performance for a collection of well-monitored homes throughout the world. The goal is to demonstrate how different indicators (such as energy use/degree-day, or energy-use per occupant, site versus primary energy, etc.) affects the apparent rankings of the homes. This project is supported by the International Energy Agency.
   
3. Low-Energy Homes in the United States. We collect field data on the actual energy use and other characteristics of low-energy homes in the USA (and elsewhere). The objective is to document actual energy consumption, in addition to the quality of the homes. These results are essential for accurately forecasting or estimating energy savings potential.
   
4. Miscellaneous uses of electricity in commercial buildings and residences. We collect data on the energy use of office equipment, such as photocopy machines and computers. We are documenting the energy savings from the Energy Star program. In homes, we are collecting data on the energy use of appliances and equipment typically classified as "miscellaneous", which now amounts to over 20% of residential electricity use.
   
   

Reports are available for some of these topics and summary data will soon be available on the web; in the meantime, please contact BEA for assistance or further information.