Residential heating energy usage patterns under the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea

This study examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on residential heating energy consumption in South Korea, focusing on space heating and hot water production. Using data from smart meters and surveys in the Y Apartment Complex, the research analysed consumption patterns before COVID-19 (2019), during the early stages (2020) and the spread period (2021). The findings reveal significant variations in heating energy usage due to increased time spent at home and heightened hygiene awareness. During the spread period, there was a shift to consistent space heating throughout the day, with reduced night time heating and increased daytime and minimal control patterns compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. Hot water consumption was also increased overall, particularly in the early pandemic period, due to heightened hygiene awareness. Cluster analysis shows that households maintaining lower indoor temperatures pre-pandemic experienced higher consumption growth post-pandemic. Households with children and students had significantly higher increases in hot water usage. These findings enhance our understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on residential energy consumption and underscore the need for adaptive energy management strategies that can dynamically adjust practices in response to changes in occupant behaviour during significant social upheaval such as the pandemic.