Analysis of energy consumption pattern in Saudi Arabia’s residential buildings with specific reference to Qassim region

Consumption patterns of residential building in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) with specific reference to Qassim region are analysed to establish energy consumption indicators including consumption per dwelling, per capita and per unit area. The average shares of lighting, domestic appliances, water heaters and air conditioning out of total yearly consumption are determined to be 8.5%, 14.7%, 10.3% and 66.5%, respectively. Parametric analysis shows that residential energy consumption is insignificantly influenced by the type of building except that villas have somewhat higher consumption during the hot summer season. However, residential energy consumption is considerably affected by occupant behaviour, meteorological conditions, as well as the technical conditions of both building envelopes and air conditions setting temperature point. Energy efficiency measures are also discussed, and opportunities for energy saving are proposed. Potential energy savings up to 43% in air conditioning cooling load could be achieved by applying the KSA standard of envelope insulation. Total residential consumption savings of 3% could also be achieved by using efficient lighting and savings of 11.1% by adjusting the temperature setting point of air conditioners to 24 °C instead of 22 °C.