Residential building practice currently ignores the losses of energy and water caused by the poor design of hot water systems. These losses include: the waste of water while waiting for hot water to get to the point of use; the wasted heat as water cools down in the distribution system after a draw; and the energy to reheat water that was already heated once before. Traditional showers, faucets, and dishwashers are prime sources of these kinds of losses. This activity focuses on better characterizing these losses and coming up with methods to reduce them. The hot water distribution systems (HWDS) activity in EES is led by Jim Lutz.

Most studies of global energy use have been top-down-for example, using macroeconomic data to project future energy use. In contrast, this study analyzes residential energy use on an end-use basis for several developing countries.

Energy-efficiency standards and labels for appliances, equipment, and lighting products are cost-effective policies for conserving energy in over 60 countries. They fit well with most other energy policies and can form the backbone of national energy policy portfolios. Efficiency standards and labels can force a shift to energy-efficient technology to improve national energy efficiency.