Enhancing Energy Flexibility via Product-Service Systems: An Analysis of Dishwasher Usage with Renewable Integration at HSB Living Lab+

Book chapter, 2024

This study investigates the role of Product-Service Systems (PSS) in enhancing energy flexibility in home appliances, focusing on the integration of demand response strategies to optimize energy efficiency without compromising user convenience. A case study at the HSB Living Lab+ evaluated a dishwasher under three conditions: standard operation (Product as Usual, PAU) and two PSS frameworks, both integrated with an Energy Management System (EMS) and User Interface (UI) for real-time energy feedback. Preliminary data suggests that PSS configurations can influence users to align their operations with renewable energy availability, potentially improving energy efficiency and reducing dependence on non-renewable sources. The study also briefly evaluates the sustainability of the three scenarios across economic, environmental, and social dimensions. While initial findings show promise for the role of PSS in energy management, further long-term studies are essential to ascertain the depth of impact on energy practices and user behaviours.