International residential energy end use data: Analysis of historical and present day structure and dynamics

International comparisons of residential energy use have been hindered in the past by lack of data and common measuring systems. In this paper, we report on ongoing efforts to disaggregate data on residential space comfort and appliance energy use for major member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Indicators of structure (i.e. dwelling size, number of appliances, incomes) and of intensity (energy use per degree day, etc.) are developed for various countries and compared. It is shown that there is much room for energy conservation by reductions in energy intensity, even while structural factors (e.g., rising incomes) tend to increase energy use.