Levels of fuel poverty are at an all-time high, particularly in Scotland, therefore the thermal performance of the housing stock and associated energy consumption of the residents are critical in reducing fuel bills and lowering C02 emissions. User habits are a significant contributory factor to high energy use within the home and this can be partly attributed to a lack of knowledge and inappropriate use of heating and ventilation systems. The recent introduction of Section 7 into the Scottish Technical Standards provides an optional award for Sustainability which recognises the need to inform residents of how to use their homes in an energy efficient manner via an occupant guide.
This paper highlights the need for an occupant guide identified through previous post occupancy research work and proposes a template for a bespoke ‘quick start’ guide which communicates energy efficient practices through clear visual instructions for operating a new house. This paper also identifies challenges to the production of such a guide within the current house building industry and proposes a range of methods of gathering this bespoke house type information. Likewise the distribution of the guide is critical to the success of the resident’s commitment and application of the guidance. It has been tested in both social housing and private sector housing within the West of Scotland and survey data taken from residents have been analysed to review the success of the guide. In addition to resident’s comments, feedback from professionals in the Scottish house building industry have been a valuable source of data. Addressing occupant habits by communicating low energy practises to residents will not only help homes meet their predicted energy consumption but should also reduce fuel bills and assist the UK Government meet their ambitious C02 emission targets.