Direct load control of air conditioners in Qatar: An empirical study

Meeting peak electricity demand in Qatar has become a major priority as the consumption levels have been increasing dramatically during the last years. The primary source of customer demand is air conditioning which is a necessity during sweltering summer months. Even though, decision-makers have initiated energy efficiency measures, demand response programs which aim to reduce customer demand during peak periods, are yet to be implemented. In this paper, we present direct load control (DLC) of air conditioner (AC) units in a typical Qatari villa during summer 2017. We deployed an energy monitor, thermal and hygrometers to measure power demand and the changes in the thermal comfort. Results indicate that significant demand reductions can be achieved by curtailing AC units for 15 to 30 min at units with active occupants, while further savings are feasible if AC is cut for an hour or longer at units whose residents are on summer vacation. Such results provide critical insights in assessing demand reduction potential of Qatar and determining associated economic savings.