Regulations and fuel costs may force us to curb our addiction to warmth and gadgets, writes Paul Cullen.
IN TERMS of energy efficiency, the modern house is unrecognisable compared to its predecessor from the mid-20th century.
Thanks to double glazing, improved wall and roof insulation and energy-efficient central heating systems, modern homes use just one-third of the energy consumed by a typical house 50 years ago. As a result, household fuel use has declined slightly over the past 15 years even though there are many more houses, and their average size is bigger.
However, this rosy picture breaks down when electricity consumption is considered. This is up 62 per cent since 1990, largely because of the proliferation of electronic gadgets in the house.
In 1987, just six per cent of homes had a home computer; today, nearly 60 per cent do. The proportion of homes with microwaves has soared from 6 per cent to 86 per cent over the same period. At the same time, the size of televisions and many other items has grown, and with it their energy consumption.
It is clear from the SEI report that the increased disposable income created by the Celtic Tiger has produced an energy binge that has offset many of the gains that might have been expected. Rows of recessed lighting have replaced the single downlighter that used to illuminate the kitchen; dishwashers have supplanted hot water; and at Christmas time, outdoor festive lights appear on many houses.
In the UK, the average room temperature has increased by almost six degrees Celsius since 1970, and while no comparable Irish figures are available it is a fair bet the situation is the same.
The same "comfort effect" sees lights left on through many homes, and rooms heated, whether or not they are occupied.
All this may be about to change, as much because of the economic downturn as regulatory changes. Already, one in 10 Irish households is experiencing difficulties paying fuel bills, the SEI report shows, and the average spend on energy by households is now over €2,100 a year.
A ban on incandescent light bulbs will take effect from next year, forcing consumers to switch to energy-saving alternatives. Energy rating of houses also starts next year, and will further drive consumers towards greener house options.
Another development that may encourage people to scrutinise their energy consumption is the introduction of smart metering in all homes; a pilot programme is now starting in 25,000 homes.