What does "demand-side management" refer to in HVACR?

Demand-side management in the context of HVACR refers to strategies that promote more efficient use of energy by consumers. This concept involves a variety of techniques and programs designed to encourage users to modify their level and pattern of electricity usage, ultimately leading to reduced energy consumption during peak demand times and overall better efficiency.

By educating consumers about their energy use and providing incentives for energy-efficient practices, demand-side management can lead to lower energy costs, decreased strain on energy resources, and a reduced environmental impact. This not only benefits consumers through potential savings on energy bills but also contributes to a more sustainable energy system as a whole.

In contrast, other options deal with energy generation, regulations, or manufacturing processes, which do not align with the specific goal of managing consumer energy use effectively.