Energy Efficiency and Demand-Side Management Flashcards
7 cards from real REP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Energy Efficiency and Demand-Side Management flashcards as text
What is the purpose of an energy audit in a commercial facility?
Answer: To identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption and improve operational efficiency
An energy audit systematically reviews a facility's energy use to identify inefficiencies and recommend cost-effective improvements.
The ENERGY STAR program, administered by the U.S. EPA and DOE, certifies products and buildings that:
Answer: Meet strict energy efficiency performance standards set above the minimum code requirements
ENERGY STAR certification indicates that a product or building performs in the top tier of energy efficiency compared to similar models or buildings, exceeding baseline code requirements.
Which of the following technologies is most directly associated with demand-side management by enabling automated control of home appliances based on grid signals?
Answer: Smart thermostats and home energy management systems (HEMS)
Smart thermostats and HEMS respond to utility price signals or direct load control commands, automatically adjusting appliance operation to reduce peak demand.
What is the difference between energy conservation and energy efficiency?
Answer: Conservation involves behavioral changes to use less energy; efficiency achieves the same output with less energy input
Energy conservation refers to using less energy through behavioral changes (e.g., turning off lights), while energy efficiency means accomplishing the same task using less energy through improved technology or design.
A building owner installs LED lighting to replace incandescent bulbs. Which of the following best describes this action from an energy efficiency perspective?
Answer: Energy efficiency improvement, because the same lighting level is maintained with significantly less electricity
Replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs delivers equivalent or better illumination while consuming up to 75% less electricity, which is a classic energy efficiency measure.
In the context of green building certifications in the U.S., which rating system awards points for both energy efficiency measures and on-site renewable energy generation?
Answer: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
LEED, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, is the most widely used green building rating system and awards credits for energy performance, renewable energy use, water efficiency, and other sustainability categories.
What is 'load factor' in electrical systems, and why is it important for energy efficiency?
Answer: The ratio of average load to peak load over a time period; a higher load factor indicates more consistent and efficient use of electrical infrastructure
Load factor (average load ÷ peak load) reflects how consistently electrical infrastructure is used; a higher load factor means demand is steadier, reducing the need for expensive peaking capacity and improving economic efficiency.