Abstract:
The expected savings from energy efficiency projects are divided into two, direct savings and indirect savings. Direct savings refer to savings obtained
through the personal effort of an individual implemen-ting some energy efficiency measures. Indirect savings are achieved through information
transmission of energy efficiency measures from an individual to his/her neighbours. In this paper information trans-mission is seen as human
contribution for energy savings through interactions within the social network. This paper formulates a mathematical model that calculates an expected
energy cost savings model that consists of direct and indirect savings. Indirect savings are made through social interactions of people in a network over
time. Direct savings calculations are based on the Homeflex time of use tariff of South Africa. A case study of thirty-six households is used to illustrate the
impact individuals have on the rest of their network in transferring information about the energy efficiency measures they have implemented. The results
show that social interactions can improve energy efficiency savings and consequently reduce electricity cost.
