ABSTRACT
This chapter seeks to investigate the impact of the differences between France and Sweden and to inquire into the role of users on energy consumption. It analyses how user behaviours are taken into account in the design and operation of low-energy buildings. The chapter assesses how users actually influence the energy performance. The users are frequently considered as responsible for the gap between expected and real energy consumption. The chapter examines the role of users and technology related to the operation of the building. It defines low-energy buildings in France and Sweden. The chapter contributes to the research agenda established by the CIB W118 roadmap on 'Clients and users in construction' by addressing its desires 'to assess different methods for involving users and stakeholders in decision-making processes on construction as well as operation of built facilities' and also in understanding 'the mechanisms behind successful/failed projects'. It concludes with lessons learned and practical implications for clients.
