Effect of Vegetation on Residential Energy Use in Ann Arbor, MI (US) (94-G-131)

Computer models have shown that proper placement of trees aroundclimate- controlled buildings can significantly contribute to energyconservation by lowering cooling requirements in summer months andheating requirements in the winter. A study conducted in a residentialneighborhood of Ann Arbor, Michigan, uses electric and natural gasutility company records to examine energy demand for homes in 3 areaswith distinctly different levels of tree stocking. Field measurementsquantify the density of vegetation that casts shade directly on homes,and aerial photo interpretation is used to evaluate potential windshielding offered to individual homes by vegetation and adjacentbuildings. Statistical analysis of data indicates that variability ofstructures, including different levels of insulation, infiltration, andefficiencies of space-conditioning appliances mask the effects ofvegetation on energy use. Analysis is further complicated by a widerange of energy use habits of individual homeowners. However, trendsare observed that suggest proper placement of trees with regard toseasonal solar gain and wind patterns may yield substantial savings ofenergy. Improper placement of trees may yield a significant increase innet levels of energy used for space conditioning.

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