Estimating the electricity savings effect of ceiling insulation

In South Africa, households contribute 20% to the peak energy demand and consume 29% of municipal electricity. Ceiling insulation was found to be a viable passive design option to reduce winter electricity consumption and peak demand. Electricity savings due to ceiling insulation were estimated by computer simulation. Verification results using a typical three-bedroom house are also presented. Savings in different regions of South Africa were then determined, based on the results of a home-owner survey to obtain key inputs. Anaverage household can save up to R260 ($60) on electricity consumption annually by installing ceiling insulation. A period of five to six years should then cover the cost of the installation. On a national scale, R359-million could be saved and greenhouse gas production reduced by almost 600,000 tons per year.