Research Axes

The proposed research is organized into two main axes and an application case study axis.

Axis 1. Model predictive control and optimized building operation

Development of methodologies and techniques for model-based optimal building operation so as to reduce cost/maximize benefits while ensuring acceptable comfort for the occupants; development and calibration of reduced order models for different types of zones; use of continuous weather prediction for predictive control in several representative building types and zones; thermal storage (passive and active) utilization to reduce peak loads in conjunction with predictive control; optimal operation of existing buildings based on their thermal dynamics and occupant behavior; optimize interaction with a smart grid in response to grid requirements, pricing schemes, price signals and distributed renewable energy resources such as building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV).

Axis 2. Building flexibility for enhanced integration of distributed renewable energy resources and smart grid interaction

Design methodologies and strategies to enhance thermal and electrical flexibility of buildings and responsiveness to the grid though integration of renewables and predictive control (from axis 1) will be developed. The building flexibility with different types of energy storage and HVAC systems will be characterized in order to properly integrate distributed energy generation, such as building-integrated photovoltaic, reduce the impact of their variation on the electric grid and allow maximum use of such resources. Models will be integrated for occupant behavior and effect of solar radiation variations on instantaneous net power requirements of buildings, including heating and cooling. Techniques will be developed for the building to react automatically, either by its own decision or with an external grid signal to use the building as a grid resource.

Axis 3. Application case studies

Application case studies that integrate the work of axes 1 and 2 in retrofit measures (including control strategies), for new existing buildings, as well as infrastructure.

Following the links to view detailed research and individual projects in each axis: Axis 1, Axis 2 and Axis 3.