COMPARATIVE ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL-POLICY FOR THE RESIDENTIAL SECTOR - APPLYING DUTCH STANDARDS TO THE UK HOUSING STOCK

We analysed the effect of applying Dutch thermal efficiency standards of residential dwellings, conversion efficiency, appliance fuel mixes and appliance ownership rates, to the UK residential sector. We found that although aggregate energy consumption does not change significant ly, pollution emissions are reduced significantly. Thus, the primary d ifference between housing and appliance stocks in the two regions is i n terms of fuel mixes. However, improved thermal efficiency does allow for increased dwelling warmth without increasing emissions. Adapting Dutch standards in the UK would lead to a one-time improvement of the environmental situation, after which the trend is continued. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.