The Effect of COVID-19 on Household Utilities Consumption

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to determine the difference between the utilities consumption in various homes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggest causes for such differences, and present these data and findings to potentially predict utilities consumption after the pandemic. Data collection of electricity, gas, and water consumption for about 30 different college students’ homes was utilized to compare pre-pandemic and in-pandemic utilities consumption and to observe any changes. Understanding how the utilities consumption between the two time periods differs will illustrate different reasons as to how energy usage compares year over year and how subsequent knowledge can mediate the potential effects of increased consumption and cost of utilities. Lessening the utility loads for many homeowners is a crucial step closer to becoming net zero as a community, state, and country; the possibilities of renewable energy are endless, but informing the general public and adopting improved energy solutions will further prepare homeowners in unexpected events like COVID-19. In short, this study aims to distinguish major causes of higher utility consumption before and during the pandemic and convey these findings in ways that can reduce the consumption and cost of utilities in the near future.