The use, energy use and renovation of Swedish second homes in winter sport areas

Abstract

Abstract The growing utilization of second homes has led to extended heating periods and, to some extent, renovations to enhance their standards, resulting in increased energy and resource consumption. This study, conducted in Sweden, investigates user patterns across various seasons, heating systems, and implemented energy renovation measures. Findings reveal that 40% of second homes in winter sport areas are inhabited prolonged periods during the winter, and more than half are used for shorter durations throughout all seasons, surpassing the usage frequency of second homes in general. Additionally, more than half of these second homes are heated to temperatures exceeding 16°C even when unoccupied. The predominant heating method is direct electricity (48%), followed by heat pumps (32%). Renovation activities primarily focus on interior surfaces, kitchens, and bathrooms to elevate standards, with less than 15% implemented energy-efficient measures like heat pump installation, added insulation, new lighting, or control systems. Considering reported user and heating patterns, along with energy renovations undertaken, the study estimates the energy-saving potential associated with various energy renovation strategies. By installing heat pump the energy consumption can be reduced by more than 50% and by lowering the temperature when the house is unoccupied the energy consumption may be reduced by almost 50%.