Structural modelling of energy demand in the residential sector: 2. The use of linguistic variables to include uncertainty of customers' behaviour

We present a new concept of modelling energy-using behaviour of residential customers by the use of linguistic variables and a fuzzy logic approach. Trapezoidal- and delta-shaped fuzzy filters were applied to transfer uncertainties of customer declarations expressed in linguistic variables into parameters of structural models. This approach involves individual treatment of each customer. In surveys of energy consumption, precise description of appliance uses is practically impossible. Thus, fuzzy models are appropriate. The method is especially useful for small- and mid-size samples of customers who are connected to the same supply feeder or living in a chosen area.