Toward the Development of a Solar Prosumer Culture: Testing the Effectiveness of Simulation Models

Abstract

Research has shown that suburban solar prosumers can produce enough energy to power an entirely electric transportation fleet, effectively making them the new oil companies. However, these homeowners must make multiple interacting energy technology decisions to become effective prosumers. The research presented herein develops and tests the effectiveness of a simulation of a solar prosumer energy system designed to help potential prosumers evaluate energy technology options and develop a fundamental conceptual understanding that will help them make wise decisions. Through interaction with the simulation, in a gamification exercise, homeowners can confront their biases and misconceptions about solar prosumer systems and formulate a new understanding of system dynamics. The simulation exercise teaches concepts and interactions of energy use, efficiency, storage, and sales. Online application of the simulation can have a broad reach and facilitate the transition to a solar prosumer energy system by encouraging a prosumer culture.